We at People’s Light are saddened and outraged by the killings of George Floyd, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and countless victims of anti-Black racism whose names do not make headlines. Amidst the backdrop of COVID-19 and the massive unemployment that followed, both of which have disproportionately affected Black communities, these homicides are a tipping point – the latest painful indication of the systemic injustice, racial inequity, and anti-Black violence and discrimination deeply ingrained in our history and society.

While we strive toward the ideals of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, we also acknowledge that People’s Light continues to participate in and benefit from larger systems of oppression. We know we must do better. We recognize that words need action behind them and plan to release a more in-depth statement in the coming days.

As a center for community gathering and art-making, we promise to listen, to acknowledge our privilege, to educate ourselves, to foster dialogue and empathy, to seek out and amplify voices of Black theatre-makers, to continue to tell stories that explore our shared humanity, and to stand in solidarity with our Black colleagues, artists, and community members in the fight against racism.

#BlackLivesMatter

Posted June 2, 2020