A message of solidarity

Dear Friends,

Our hearts are breaking and our blood is boiling. The systemic de-valuing, persecution, and killing of Black people in the United States is abhorrent, unjust, and unacceptable at all times and in all places. But the murder of George Floyd demands further statements of solidarity and soul-searching. 

The assault on black lives this week, months, and throughout our nation's history, is devastating, outrageous, and unacceptable. Black Lives Matter.

It is part of the bigger systemic problem of white supremacy that has oppressed, injured, and killed millions of Black people, Indigenous people, people of color, disabled and immunosuppressant people, LGBTQ+ people, immigrants, refugees, and people in poverty. Every death and every ruined life is too many.

We know that as an arts organization run by white people, Theater in Asylum is a beneficiary of the brutal system of white supremacy. We recognize this, and through each action we do and each space we hold, we try to create a room of good faith and equality. It is not enough. We will continue to listen, watch, read, protest, and stand next to Black people, Indigenous people, people of color, and all who are hurt by white supremacy. We believe it is important to send this email, to state clearly that we believe Black lives matter.  It is only one step and we will continue the work of making ourselves and our theater company anti-racist.

Here are some resources we have found that we would like to amplify:

Natl Resource List #GeorgeFloyd+
Compiled JaLoni Amor Owens, a New York based community organizer and freelance writer


@LoveLettersToBlackPeople
Inspired by What To Send Up When It Goes Down by Aleshea Harris


Black Lives Matter Syllabus
A website full of resources, readings, and videos created by Frank Leon Roberts


Nothing to add: A Challenge to White Silence in Racial Discussions
An article on white silence by Robin DiAngelo


43 Bail Funds You Can Support Right Now
Compiled by Carmen Phillips, published on BlackLivesMatterSyllabus.com and Autostraddle.com


Another unarmed black person has been killed. It’s no wonder we can’t breathe.
An Op-ed by Ben Crump, lawyer representing George Floyd's family

We would like to assert again a truth we believe deeply:

Black Lives Matter.

Safety, power, and love to you,

Paul, Katie, Kathryn, Hilarie, and Samantha
Theater in Asylum