30 May 2020 — This is the time to define our generation with justice. Institutional racism and violence against People of Color, is backed by historic oppression and the legacy of white supremacy. We must stand together to protect each other, Communities of Color, and especially Black Communities, which are disproportionately affected by mass incarceration, inadequately funded education, and poverty.

We must not lose hope for a better future or faith in the power of restorative resolution. It is on each of us to stay present as much as we are able: amplify the voices of those most directly affected by repeated tragedies, act to support and protect from further harm, and demand accountability. It is urgent we address the detrimental effects of racist law enforcement, and the systems of power and privilege that disadvantage and endanger Communities of Color every day.

We stand in unequivocal solidarity with people across the nation protesting all forms of police brutality, especially murder by police. Police departments are rooted in historic racial oppression and have failed “to protect and to serve.” Law enforcement agencies should be completely transparent and subject to independent oversight. Why are officers not held to the same standard of decency as other citizens? This lack of accountability and consequence is the definition of injustice. Policing has failed our communities for generations and needs to be dismantled.

We cannot allow any more lives to be lost. We refuse to live in fear or be passive while our youth, neighbors, friends, and family members are violently and systemically attacked. This is a struggle that Rock Paper Scissors Collective takes on every day. We are here. We are with you. We are you. All power to the people.