Statement Regarding Racism

Dear Community,

Like everyone in our small community and across the nation, the Hutchinson Center is reeling from the killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor and many others before them. We, too, stand against systemic racism and brutality. We understand the need to act, to self-examine and to be in solidarity with those in our country who are deeply affected by racism at every level. We understand the need to do more and to create a more equitable nation, starting right here in Belfast.

We don’t have all the answers today. We are committed to examining our organization, our actions, and our role in rebuilding systems that are fair and just for all people, regardless of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, disability or nationality. This is a time of deep learning and growth for all of us. We invite you to learn and grow along with us.  

Here are some additional resources (we’ll continue to add to this list):

• A Message to the Community from the University of Maine
• University of Maine Office for Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) is offering  informal support session for students of color only who want to talk through coping during this sensitive and difficult time.
• Showing Up for Racial Justice SURJ organizes white Mainers for racial justice through community organizing, mobilizing and education.
• Antiracist reading list
  • How to Be Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi
  • White Fragility by Robin Diangelo
  • So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
  • Me and White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad
• Movement for Black Lives