Solidarity Statement from MCADV
We are saddened and appalled at the violence that has taken black lives in our country. The senseless deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and other black and brown people have sparked outrage in our communities. We condemn these horrific acts and mourn the loss of lives brought by them. As a coalition, we refuse to be silent about the current state of our country. We understand that in order to achieve our mission to end domestic violence, racism has to be addressed and banished.
MCADV recognizes that all forms of violence and oppression are connected. One does not fight against one form of injustice and not fight against others. We stand in solidarity with individuals who bravely protest and utilize their voices to speak out and demand justice for those that have lost loved ones to police brutality. MCADV opposes the killing of black men and women by law enforcement and we oppose the systems that enable these human rights violations. We must unify and use our collective voices to demand systematic change. Together, we have the strength.
Many of us need to take a moment to grieve and take care of ourselves and our communities. It is okay to feel sad, angry, or even confused. Some are in disbelief at what is currently taking place right outside our front doors. We must lift each other up and support ways to heal. Processing all of this will take time. However, after sorting through feelings and emotions, we must take action. To be silent right now is to be complicit. Find people and groups in your community that are doing the work and ask how you can help. Donate to organizations that are committed to the fight to end injustice, racism and violence against women and people of color. We now have the opportunity to come together and make a positive impact on the quality of life of marginalized groups in our country.
In Solidarity,
Wendy Mahoney
Executive Director, Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence
