We, the Executive Board and House of Delegates (of East Aurora Council of American Federation of Teachers Local 604) stand in solidarity with the movement for black lives, as well as its efforts to realize justice, dignity, and equity for those who experience systemic racism and disadvantage within our country, our community and our district.
We condemn the senseless murder of George Floyd, as we do for all those who have similarly lost their lives, their bodily autonomy, their self-respect, or their livelihoods as a result of corruption, cruelty, or the indifference on the part of those empowered to serve and/or protect our precious communities.
We call for justice for George Floyd, his family, and his loved ones, which means not only holding those who participated in his death accountable to the highest degree, but reforming the systems which allow for these and similar outrageous offenses to occur.
We recognize that providing justice to all, particularly those most affected by inequity, means not only criminal justice and police reform, but addressing larger systemic problems including poverty, as well as the lack of adequate community resources and infrastructure.
As staff members and teachers of this community, we believe that silence is not an option, which means helping community efforts for justice; to uphold the voices of those speaking difficult truths, and, if needed, speaking alongside them; and to support legislation that improves the conditions of the students, families, and the community, whether at our schools, local government, or nationally.
We are seeing history unfold, but it is not enough to passively watch. We are at a crossroads, and it is our hope that through this crucible of change, we forge an even deeper connection, and together find a path to a better future.
We want to listen. We want to know. Reach out to teachers and staff you trust and tell us your stories, fears, hopes, dreams, and suggestions. We want to be a part of this change.
— East Aurora Council of AFT Local 604