6/4/2020
Educare DC’s Statement in the Wake of the Murder of George Floyd
At Educare DC, we see the brilliance of our children every day, and the wild and infinite potential they hold. We celebrate their inherent worth, and are driven by our vision for a future in which all children have equal opportunity to reach their full potential – a future which is far too often not a reality for Black children and their families.
Like so many, our hearts are broken by the vicious murder of George Floyd and the indescribable loss that his family and friends are experiencing. The events of the past week have tapped a well of hurt, anger, and frustration within the Black community, the depth of which cannot be measured. George Floyd’s murder was the continuation of hundreds of years abuse, starting with the massive and brutal kidnapping of millions of Africans, who went on to build this country, only to repeatedly suffer at its hand.
To this day, Black men, women, and children continue to die at the hands of law enforcement, vigilante acts of violence, as well as unequal access to health care, education, jobs, housing, and other forms of structural racism. Our country’s racist structures pose a direct threat to Educare DC’s children, families, and many of our staff members, and we want to state plainly: racist systems and structures and sentiments are antithetical to Educare DC’s mission and vision.
It is imperative that our country right this wrong.
Educare DC stands with those shaking with righteous anger and demanding justice. We commit ourselves to becoming a more intentionally anti-racist force in our community.
Educare DC does not hold the answers, but we do know two things for certain:
Black Lives Matter. We stand in solidarity with all of our Black colleagues, partners, children, and families. You matter, your life matters.
Now is not the time to stand quietly by. A future in which Black children have equal opportunity to reach their full potential is not possible without true and lasting systemic change. We must all show up, stand up, and speak up, for starters. You can protest, sign petitions, write letters, donate resources and amplify Black voices. If you are a White person, use your privilege and your network and your influence – and educate yourself – don’t expect your Black brothers and sisters to teach you. We can all stand in solidarity to demand change, and we can all take action to make the change.
Below are some resources which may help guide your thoughts and actions.
We hope you will stand with us – for all Black people and for our children. The need for action action has never been greater.
In solidarity,
Pyper Davis
Executive Director
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Action Steps and Resources to Share
Black Lives Matter – Ways You Can Help
75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
Anti-Racist Reading List from Ibram X. Kendi
Resources for talking with children
DC Area Educators for Social Justice – Early Childhood and Elementary Resources
31 Children’s Books to Support Conversations on Race, Racism and Resistance