Our Statement on the Murder of George Floyd — And What We Do Now
“I get a feeling between my stomach and my heart and it’s scary. I feel scared. I feel so scared because it never ends. It never ends and the pain never ends and every day, every night, I’m scared that someone will kill me. The police scare me. White people scare me. I’m always scared.” — 16 year old African American RPS Student
At Project Legacy, we do not accept this reality for our young people. We do not accept this reality for our black brothers and sisters. We do not accept this reality for people of color who have been under the weight of generational oppression, racism and poverty for over 400 years.
We do not accept this reality, though we know it is reality. So we must work to change it — tirelessly and without end.
What happened on Monday is the product of systemic racism. Not an “unfortunate incident,” it was murder. It was the murder of George Floyd, a man beloved by many, in broad daylight at the hands of uniformed police officers, now former, of the Minneapolis Police Department.
The events that have followed this tragedy are the product of racist systems. These events now have many people asking questions.
"What can I do?"
"What can we do?"
If you are just starting to address this issue in your own life, here is a place to start. A place to take your outrage at the murder of George Floyd and transform it into activism with your life, your voice and your privilege.
First, if you have no friends of color, ask yourself why that is. I’m not talking about someone you know — I’m talking about a real friend. Someone to call when you’re sad, someone you call when you’re happy. Why are all of your friends white?
Second, look at the groups and organizations you support. Who sits on their board? Who are their staff? If you’re part of an organization providing services or working with people of color and your entire organization consists of white staff — that is a problem.
Next, educate yourself. Don’t ask a person of color to explain the history, the trauma and the rage. If you can’t understand why Minneapolis and St. Paul are burning, buy a book and read. Contact us and we will help point you in the right direction.
Then, once you understand, if you don’t already: call out racism. Every single time. On Facebook, around the dinner table, in your social circles. It matters. It is all connected, friends, and if you remain silent you are condoning prejudice and discrimmination.
Finally, white people, join the work of Project Legacy to help us eliminate barriers and oppression. You are welcome here. As Alysha said this week, “I don't care what color someone is or how long they've been in the fight. If they want to help NOW — come and work with us!”
You are welcome here. Join the fight.
Project Legacy is uniquely equipped to grow, expand and lead. And in line with our vision, our young people are prepared and at the forefront of this leadership.
We are growing. We are expanding. Now is the time. Here’s how to act:
Look at yourself honestly and evaluate where you are in the process of facing and acknowledging systemic racism and implicit bias.
Educate yourself.
Determine what you are capable of doing and what you are willing to do in the fight for freedom and justice.
Take action. Some of you will become fierce advocates among your friends and family, and some, we await your email, your phone call, and your advocacy within the walls of Project Legacy and our community. We are glad you’re here.
This photo is of our program team. From Los Angeles to Minneapolis to Rochester, we are working for justice by removing barriers and providing resources, opportunities and connections.
And we need you. No matter your age, color, gender identity, immigration status, sexual orientation, faith tradition or how long you’ve been in the fight. You are welcome at Project Legacy.