SANSAD News-release May 22, 2020
In solidarity with Ahmaud Arbery.
We as the South Asian Network for Secularism and Democracy (SANSAD) extend our deepest condolences for the family and friends of Ahmaud Arbery, and solidarity with Black communities across Turtle Island.On February 23, 2020 in Georgia, Ahmaud was out jogging, when two white men (a father and his son) saw Ahmaud running, got their guns, got into their truck, chased Ahmaud down, and shot and murdered him. Ahmaud was 25 years old. The attackers are Gregory McMichael, a former cop, and his son Travis. Both have been arrested, more than 2 months after the killing. We completely condemn this act of lynching, and the racist violence that Black American communities continue to endure, violence that is rooted in the history of settler colonialism and plantation slavery.As non-Black people of colour, we have also been affected by the legacies of colonialism in various ways, but it is imperative to recognize that the anti-Black racism, discrimination, and violence that is used against our Black neighbours is at the root of the racism, discrimination, and violence that is used against us and other marginalized communities as well. We must stand in solidarity with Black communities that have been standing against racism and police brutality for so long.Black communities have suffered countless deaths at the hands of racist people, with few cases getting higher profile over the past few years. Each year more names are added when we #SayTheirNames, and enough is enough. We demand accountability from governments and communities to end the historic and pervasive racism in the US, and to bring justice for Ahmaud’s family.For our white and non-Black people of colour supporters: If you are wondering what you can do to support our Black friends and neighbours and stand in solidarity in honour of Ahmaud Arbery, here are a couple tangible things:
1. Please talk to your family and friends about anti-black racism and how it’s upheld in conversations. This is the root of how these horrific injustices happen. We must address how we’re complicit in the violence, policing, and racism against black communities and uphold anti-blackness within ourselves. It is our responsibility to do so.
2. Sign, and call to support the petition to bring justice for Ahmaud and his family – https://www.runwithmaud.com/#petition
3. And here in BC, donate to the Black in BC Covid19 fund, to help support community members that may be in need of assistance during the pandemic crisis – https://bit.ly/3cmkpt6