Over the past two weeks, our country has witnessed an extraordinary outpouring of grief over the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor at the hands of police. We at AAUW California are not immune from this pain wrought of unfair treatment of our sisters and brothers of color.
We condemn racism and its associated discrimination. It is the root cause of today’s injustices. These recent instances of anti-Black violence have reaffirmed the need for major societal change, and for a national discussion going beyond racism and police brutality. Prejudice and inequality – including economic inequality – cannot be passively ignored. AAUW has been a leading voice in America in the fight for equity for women and girls, and we especially recognize the additional challenges facing Black women and girls.
AAUW is committed to fighting for justice, and will work collaboratively to give access for all people to the opportunities and resources needed for optimal health and safety. Our organization is a member of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, and we will work to advance the policies and systemic changes such as those identified in the New Era of Public Safety: A Guide to Fair, Safe, and Effective Community Policing and Vision for Justice platform.