Black Lives Matter Statement
It is absolutely essential that moving forward, every day and in every way, that our systems change to reflect the reality that black lives matter. The death of George Floyd in 2020 along with many others who were murdered by police, so clearly shows, a radical shift needs to occur. These deaths are still occurring regularly.
Racism and white supremacy are deeply ingrained in U.S culture and it’s institutions. Those of us who are white have the privilege to distance ourselves from the pain of this reality while enacting white supremacy, consciously, or unconsciously. The work to dismantle this within ourselves will be ongoing, every day. But as witches, that’s what we do. We enter the cauldron and ask for change and then do the physical work to make it so. Golden Web has been in the midst of its own process of examining and transforming the inherent racism and white supremacy in the structure of the school.
The Golden Web community honors the work of those individuals and groups who have demanded justice. It is vital that we support and center the voices of BIPOC led organizations and back their requests for systemic change. Groups like Black Lives Matter and locally Don’t Shoot Portland, Rose City Justice and many others have led the way. There is a call now for all of us to stand up, speak out, and support in all the ways we can. Below are some ways to take action.
Donate and support:
All people of color are at higher risk for violence and death at the hands of police. Follow the lead of people of color and do not do anything that would further endanger BIPOC around you. Reach out and support as many BIPOC groups as you can. Financial and often physical support is always needed.
Call, email, or write local city officials pushing for change:
The mayor has a lot of input in setting the tone of Portland’s Police. mayorwheeler@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-4120. City council members should be contacted as well and Portland’s Police Chief. Let them know how you feel about Portland’s long history of racial injustice.
Educate yourself and others:
Learn about the ways that the system has been designed to fail Black, Indigenous, Latinix, and other people of color.
Do magic!
Ask for protection for BIPOC. Create shrines for those killed. Offer magical support for those demanding change. Follow up with physical support or donations. May their voices be heard. May our voices lend strength.