2020 StatementThe Kentucky Library Association (KLA) expresses our deep sadness for the senseless deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, David McAtee and the many other Black citizens in America who have been victims of racism and bigotry. We condemn all racially-motivated acts of violence and oppression. Black lives matter! KLA is committed to ensuring racial equity for every library staff member and every citizen in our communities across Kentucky. Kentucky's academic, public, and school libraries must provide open access to diverse information in a safe place, whether physically or online, for all people to discover what these tragedies mean for themselves and their communities. We hope Kentucky's library staff members and citizens across the Commonwealth will work together to make changes for a better today and future in their communities as they determine what these events mean. KLA endorses the statements from the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) and the ALA Executive Board, both of which condemn violence and racism towards Black people and all ethnically marginalized people. ************************************** Kandace Rogers President, Kentucky Library Association 2019-2020 (859) 514-3359 |