Dear Affinity Family,
Our hearts are still broken over the weekend's events that continue to unfold in Charlottesville, Virginia. A young woman was killed, dozens were injured, and the world was reminded that this country has never been safe for some of us.
What makes moments like these so challenging is that we know that what is happening in Charlottesville is not unique to Charlottesville. It is an example of the bigotry that exists across the country that is playing out on a national stage.
These tragedies don't happen in a vacuum. We currently have leaders in this country deliberately fanning the flames of racism, misogyny, xenophobia and anti-LGBTQ sentiments. The rhetoric they use and the bigotry they refuse to genuinely denounce has emboldened those who use hate and violence to attack and marginalize our communities. In the face of these vile attacks, the silence of our leaders is deafening, and their equivocation is painfully clear.
Many of us began this week tired from the weekend's events and faced the acknowledgment that horrific incidents like what happened in Charlottesville this weekend will continue to happen unless and until we address racism and bigotry in all of its forms. Affinity stands committed to fight with you for the safety and equality of our communities.
While there is much to do, we must remember that part of our work is to take care of each other and ourselves. Affinity is also committed to making and holding space while we as a community mourn, heal, and move forward. To that end, we encourage you to join us for our monthly poetry night this Thursday, Aug. 17 for a night of healing and a celebration of what is created when blackness, women and femmes show up together. It's magic.
Remember that we are all better when we are all better. Let's commit to do and be better together.
In solidarity,
Imani Rupert-Gordon
Executive Director, Affinity Community Services
Affinity Community Services |773-324-0377 | www.affinity95.org