NYSILC’s Solidarity Statement

Given recent events, NYSILC needed a solidarity statement in support of Black lives and against racism. A process ensued with drafts considered by the Executive Committee in June with feedback. It was decided to obtain feedback from the council’s diverse members. During this process, members expressed the need for the council to work on equity, along with supporting agendas such as the Greater Rochester’s Black Agenda. This feedback was then sent to the NYSILC Public Policy Committee for review and recommendation. Additional members were invited to participate. The Public Policy Committee considered the feedback, recommended a solidarity statement, and supported the Greater Rochester’s Black Agenda (including the council’s sign on). An email was sent presenting recommendations to the Executive Committee so they could consider them for online action. After minor edits to the statement, both items were approved unanimously by the Executive Committee yesterday. They are provided below:

 

NYSILC Solidarity Statement in Support of Black Lives and Against Racism

The New York State Independent Living Council, Inc (NYSILC), along with peers in our disability community, mourn the death of George Floyd and other Black lives due to excessive police force.  Black lives must matter. Disability transcends all race/ethnicities, ages, genders, and identifications and, as advocates for equality and justice, we support all peaceful efforts to reform police policies and practices that disproportionately and negatively impact Black people. Together, we witness institutional bias, discrimination, poverty and inequality in health care, employment, education, housing, and transportation. We will work together towards full equality and justice for all, including the reform of institutions and their discriminatory policies and practices. NYSILC is committed to systemic change.

 

NYSILC Support and Sign On to the Greater Rochester’s Black Agenda https://forms.gle/qa3oYYWySmt2VgnDA

Identified by a council member for support and sign on, this is more than a regional agenda. It recognizes that racism is a public health crisis and educates why racism exists, how to address it, and what underlying issues must be addressed.