We want to say this clearly and out loud: the acts of racism we see on a daily basis in this country, both overt and subtle, are abhorrent and unacceptable. We grieve the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and every Black person who has been a victim of police brutality. We condemn all actions that marginalize and/or endanger the lives and livelihoods of Black people.

America is a country of contradictions. It professes to champion equality and justice, when in practice those things only apply to the privileged few. We will never bridge the gap if we don’t talk about and eliminate the systems of oppression that perpetuate it.

Sister District will continue our work to elect progressive and diverse candidates to state legislatures, which is one of the best ways we can think of to bring about meaningful change. But that’s not enough. We will also continue to be allies and advocates for Black people—we will stand up, we will speak out, and we will not stop until every human has the dignity and respect they deserve.