NASIG Statement Against Racism

NASIG is appalled by the murder of George Floyd and numerous other Black Americans. We mourn their deaths and recognize that this violence is not a one-time occurrence but is the inevitable result of systemic racism built into the institutions and culture of the United States. We support the protestors who are seeking justice and working to create a better, more equitable world, and we oppose the brutal and vicious response of the state, from local police departments to the very highest levels of our government. .

We believe that Black Lives Matter.

As an organization, we recognize that we have to actively dismantle racist systems and create in their place an equitable, diverse, inclusive world. This means amplifying the voices both within and outside of our community that speak for equal rights. It also means acknowledging the work that still needs to be done in our own organization and in our own places of work. Libraries and archives are not neutral spaces. As a whole, NASIG is largely white and must work to ensure justice and equity for BIPOC working in and being served by libraries. Everyday, we face a choice: Use our privilege to support anti-racism work, or remain complicit in our silence.

NASIG is committed to eliminating racism and pledges to support the struggle for equal rights. We are committed to fighting against injustice. And we will remember George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, and the numerous others who have been killed in the name of white supremacy. 

In recognition of them, NASIG is donating $500 to Black Lives Matter.