ArtWorking Statement in Support of Black Lives Matter

Dear supporters, stakeholders, and colleagues,

We would like to take a moment to declare our solidarity and support for the Black Lives Matter movement, and for justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony Robinson, and countless other black lives that have been lost as a result of violence against the black community. We appreciate and support the efforts of Urban Triage, Freedom Inc, Free the 350 Bail Fund, and the other individuals and organizations doing the important work of addressing the legacy of systemized racism and oppression within our society. 

The disability rights movement is a direct beneficiary of the ongoing work that has been done by the black and African American communities around civil rights, equity and social justice. ArtWorking values this important work, and acknowledges the impossibility of realizing full inclusion and equity for people with disabilities, without simultaneously addressing and correcting the disparities and injustices that persist for people of color. These disparities are especially grave within our local communities and there is much work to be done. 

At this point the ArtWorking team would like to state our commitment  to doing the work to address systemic and structural racism is whatever forms it takes. We are far from perfect and have a great deal to learn. We are committed to learning about antiracism and social justice work, to listening to and learning from black voices and leaders, and to taking cues from the black community about what actions we can take that are necessary and useful to continue working toward equality. 

We strongly believe that we cannot in good faith advocate for the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities without addressing the racial inequalities that exist in our community. We simply cannot fulfill our mission in isolation from these issues. 

Sincerely, 

Lance Owens
Director of ArtWorking