We Stand Together.
As Catholic educators, we are charged to educate our students in mind, in body and in spirit, in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Our hearts are heavy and unrested concerning the tragic death of George Floyd and we are compelled to speak out, to add our voices and stand against racism and injustice - which are contrary to our missions and the foundation of Catholic education. As Catholic schools, we believe that our contribution to the cause of ending racism is through working with parents to form the morals and values of our children.
Earlier this week, Pope Francis decried recent events:
Dear brothers and sisters in the United States, I have witnessed with great concern the disturbing social unrest in your nation in these past days, following the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd. My friends, we cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism and exclusion in any form and yet claim to defend the sacredness of every human life. At the same time, we have to recognize that the violence of recent nights is self-destructive and self-defeating. Nothing is gained by violence and so much is lost.
In addition, the Archdiocese of Portland, Department of Catholic Schools, has issued the following statement to share with our community:
We stand in solidarity with all people who have suffered because of inherent racism in our society or other forms of discrimination. As Christians and educators, we must strive together to build the Kingdom of God, protecting the poor and oppressed and creating a community where all are welcome and respected. May the Blessed Mother intercede for us as we work for peace in our communities and nation.
As such, we offer a reminder of our commitment to our students, to our families and to our community:
We stand against racism, violence and hatred.
We stand for respect.
We stand for peace.
We stand for unity.
We stand for human life and dignity.
We stand together.
As many in our community have voiced, talking to your students about recent events can be difficult. In a response to the request for resources, we have compiled a list to share with you:
In closing, we ask that you continue to keep all in our country in your prayers. We pray that we listen to one another in openness and grow to be better people. May the Holy Spirit help all follow your Son, so that prejudice and animosity will no longer infect minds or hearts but will be replaced with a love that respects the dignity of each person.
In Christ's Peace,
