Catherine Place stands with the Black community and allies dedicated to dismantling systems of oppression. We recognize that racism in our country is a threat to Black people’s survival and racism in itself is a pandemic. Current news reflects the structural inequities, racism, and intersectionally oppressive systems present in America. We grieve for the lives of George Floyd, Manny Ellis, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and for many others who have lost their lives too soon.
Catherine Place was founded to serve marginalized women. We encourage all women to stand together and demand change. This is a call to action: we must openly face and discuss the painful injustice present in our communities. Anti-racist work begins with oneself and recognizing our own privilege. It is part of the journey of self-discovery. Speaking up and finding ways to take action is critical to our work as caring humans. We respect that the work is hard and cannot be done all at once. Taking time for self-care and living the values of equity and mutual respect are an important part of supporting change.
Friday, June 12, 2020, there is a statewide strike organized by the Black Lives Matter group in Seattle. People are encouraged to peacefully march in Seattle or in their own communities. Catherine Place will be open to serve our community, particularly those who are engaged in the work of dismantling racism. The time is always right to advance justice for those who are systematically oppressed.