Decade of watching black people die? This has been going on throughout our entire history. But the last few weeks have been filled with the news of more violence and murders of black men and women at the hands of the police, and at the hands of racist Americans. These tragedies happen so frequently in our society, like mass shootings, they have become so unfathomably familiar, the details of their stories begin to blur.  But it’s become crystal clear something—many things—need to change.     
It is madness how as a society we have watched—over and over again—black people suffering from injustices and inequities, yet necessary change doesn’t seem to happen. In protests around the country, people are rising up to demand change, to declare that this cannot and will not be tolerated. Those of us who live in privilege must join in this declaration and make our voices heard. We must work together to create real, permanent change. 

At Goodman we will continue to be part of a community where our children and families can amplify their voices, adamantly declare their rights, and stand with those who actively fight for meaningful change. Through education, exploring history and conversations that meet people where they are, we will continue to build strong, self-assured young people who will demand nothing less than a just and equitable future. 

We are richer, stronger, better together than apart.  Join us as we learn to understand, care and love one another.  Because, as Cornel West said so well, “Justice is what love looks like in public.” 
Becky Steinhoff,
Executive Director at Goodman Community Center 
Ironworks: 149 Waubesa Street Brassworks: 214 Waubesa Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53704
Read the Eastside News, our bi-monthy, uber-local newspaper.