Black Lives Matter Statement
The Overbrook Community Association stands in solidarity with Black people in our community and in North America who have been facing violent and systemic racism for centuries.
The recent police killing of George Floyd is horrific and has activated world-wide collective actions to defend Black lives. Work needs to be done to address police violence and over-policing of Black people in the US, as well as here in Canada. Black Children Matter. Black Futures Matter.
We want to honour the life of George Floyd who was killed by police in Minneapolis on the 25th of May. We honour Abdirahman Abdi and his family who still don’t have a resolution for his case. Abdi was killed by Ottawa police on July 24th 2016. We honour Greg Ritchie who was killed by Ottawa police on January 31st 2019.
Please remember two things: there is no such thing as « not racist », what Black people need are actively anti-racist allies. Then, to be a good ally, please listen, educate yourself and reflect on actions you can take to help solve racism.
Investments in community-led projects foster meaningful public safety for all. The OCA knows that decriminalization, affordable and supportive housing, community-based anti-violence programs, restorative justice programs, youth community development, trauma-informed harm-reduction, safe supply, food security programs are what foster safer communities.
We honour all of those who have lost their lives or have been affected by police brutality.
We also commit to keeping up the work that leads to safer communities, for Black people in particular but also for all of us.
Black Lives Matter. We see you, we stand with you.
For those who are able, here are some ways you can support:
Justice for Abdi campaign: http://www.justiceforabdirahman.ca/support-us/
Black Legal Action centre: https://www.blacklegalactioncentre.ca/
Federation of Black Canadians: https://fbcfcn.nationbuilder.com/general_donation