Published in the June 8, 2020 edition of the Banner Graphic.
To the Editor:
The League of Women Voters grieves the murders of George Floyd and the countless other black lives that have been tragically taken.
We also mourn those who have lost their lives or been harmed, mentally or physically, as a result of America’s pervasive culture of anti-blackness. The systems of oppression that have perpetuated the myth of white supremacy in our country must be dismantled if we are ever to become the nation we pledge to be — indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
As an organization whose mission is to empower voters and defend democracy, we stand in solidarity with all black communities. The League shall do so not only by speaking out against racism in all forms, but by doing the work required of us to be anti-racist. We are committed to listening to and amplifying black voices, and educating ourselves and our children on the historic and ongoing systemic racism that plagues this country.
The League acknowledges, painfully, that America is a nation founded on racism. Therefore, all who live in this country must contribute to and participate in organizations actively working to achieve full liberation and inclusive freedom. We must all advocate for anti-racist policies at every level of government.
We join the League of Women Voters of Minnesota in calling on law enforcement officials to provide transparency during this investigation and to seek justice for George Floyd, his family and his community.
Finally, we echo the call of our partners at the NAACP: “We must all vote in November – the road to change lies at the ballot box.”
Greencastle League of Women Voters