Join us in the fight to end racism

We have all seen the horrific images this week coming out of Minneapolis surrounding the police killing of George Floyd. We are horrified not just by his murder, but also the fact that it is not an isolated incident. Rather, it is the most recent example of injustices Black-Americans have faced going back to 1619, when the first slaves were shipped to Virginia. If you want more context, check out the New York Times 1619 project, an ongoing work to re-examine the legacy of slavery in the United States, and to put the contributions and accomplishments of Black-Americans into the center of our history. 

As the leaders of WEA, we are on the record in our call for ending racism in our union, schools, state and country. Watching the news, following social media and visiting chats, we see many people standing tall for the civil liberties and rights of all people.  We also see the comments of people more concerned with the damage to property than the loss of life. There is so much work to be done.

WEA is taking on that work. We are proud of the beginning steps we have started on the longer journey to end racism in our union and our schools. We believe that the only way to achieve racial and social justice is to address inequities head-on, with deliberation, and a commitment to change. We call on every single member of WEA to ensure that all our students, regardless of their race, ethnicity, social or economic status, religion, language, ability, gender or LGBTQ+ status feel safe and supported during these times.

This is hard work, and people don’t always know where to start. If you have questions, or are willing to be a part of WEA’s efforts to support racial and social justice, contact us or your representatives on the WEA Board of Directors. We know that when we work together in our union, we can achieve great results. Join us in our fight for equity for our students, colleagues and schools. 

Forward together,

Larry Delaney & Janie White