MNCCD would like to issue an apology for not posting a response to the murder of George Floyd earlier. We recognize that, as a Consortium of over 30 organizations, we have a responsibility to influence broadly, and we missed the opportunity to be clear about our solidarity against systemic racism. We are outraged and saddened that George Floyd was murdered, and this murder occurred due to the systemic racism that has allowed the police department to oppress communities of color for decades. We offer our deep condolences to the family of George Floyd and to the Black community. We will listen, we will be louder, we will do better. We acknowledge our White privilege on both the MNCCD Board and among many of our engaged committee members. Our White privilege gave us the option to not quickly call out Mr. Floyd's murder, and for that we are deeply apologetic. We will work hard to ensure MNCCD is a welcoming community that listens to and partners with Black, Indigenous and People of Color. We sincerely apologize and commit to the following:
 
·       The MNCCD focuses on changing public policy. We will analyze our public policy efforts through the lens of racial equity.

·       The MNCCD Board and the Anti-Discrimination committee of the MNCCD will identify training and resources on intersectionality, and explore ways to make these accessible broadly to our Consortium members, and incorporate these efforts into the infrastructure of the MNCCD.
 
We acknowledge that these efforts are only the first step, and commit to doing our part to dismantle the barriers inherent in systems that keep people with disabilities, especially people with disabilities of color, from living full lives in community.


Please read MNCCD's revised statement below.
Two weeks ago, George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis Police. George Floyd mattered. His death reminds us, once again, about the harsh and unjust reality of living as a Black person in the United States, and the extensive work to be done to end systemic racism and discrimination throughout our state and country. We stand with the Black community and are ready to join in the fight to rebuild our community to be just, fair and accessible for all.

In the United States approximately half of all lethal police encounters involve a person with a disability. The disability community understands the significance of showing up to fight for basic human rights, and we acknowledge that disability rights have historically been centered in the White experience, although disability does not discriminate between races. We acknowledge the systemic problems for persons of color navigating disability services, including higher disparities in access to diagnosis, appropriate education and daily living supports that are culturally and socially appropriate. It is important that the disability community acknowledge this intersectionality.

The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities is committed to working towards justice for all and to using an intersectional lens to fight for the rights of people with disabilities, especially people of color with disabilities. We are committed to the removal of any barriers to change, and despite these barriers, we will continue to persevere and press forward until all citizens are safe and appropriately supported regardless of race or disability status. Please raise your voice, hold people in power accountable for their actions, and continue to support one another and all who experience injustice. Black lives matter.

So what can you do?


Donate supplies to support the Twin Cities communities that faced damages.  Here is a document outlining local needs .

Contact elected officials at the state and federal level and advocate for change.   How to find your elected officials .

Ideas for changes to advocate for:
-          Campaign Zero
-          Reclaim the Block

Volunteer your time to assist in rebuilding local communities Here is a list of opportunities .

Attend a protest.

Support black owned businesses.   Here is a list of local Black-owned businesses .


Listen, especially to people from the Black community and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.

MNCCD | Website