Dear Friends,
James Baldwin reminds us that not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced. And we must continue to face the power of systemic racism, in the areas of education, poverty, public safety, health, housing, and so many other things that bring on the slow death to our democracy, dignity, and humanity. On the anniversary of the killing of George Floyd, all of us must continue to be defiant in the face of white supremacy.
Let’s join together and support Black Joy, continue our learning on racial justice, challenge systems of oppression directly and indirectly, and use the undeniable power of LOVE to light our paths in dark times. As we work together to build the Embrace on the Boston Common – this symbol of truth and justice for Boston – I thank you for your continued support and dedication to each other.
Thinking about our city one year later from George Floyd’s death, I know we still have so much work to do. I think about Dr. King’s remarks from his speech on Boston Common in 1965. “I was educated here, and it is one of the cities which I call home. I come here not to condemn but to encourage. It would be dishonest to say that Boston is Birmingham or that Massachusetts is Mississippi. But it would be irresponsible of me to deny the crippling poverty and injustice that exist in some sections of this community. The vision of the NEW BOSTON must extend into the heart of Roxbury. Boston must be a testing ground for the ideal of freedom.”
Rest in Peace & Power, Mr. Floyd.
Imari