June 5, 2020

We support Black Lives Matter

Over Memorial Day weekend, George Floyd was murdered by a police officer, while three other officers stood by in silence. Unfortunately, this is only the latest unjust killing of a Black person at the hands of law enforcement, and the latest instance of anti-Blackness that has swept our nation over the past month.

Across the country, Black leaders and their allies are standing up and demanding racial justice and systematic change. The Black Lives Matter movement has captured the soul of our country and cannot be stopped. Now is the time for us to stand up and support – not just with words, thoughts, and prayers, but with swift and decisive action.

The Santa Barbara County Democratic Party stands with Black Lives Matter Santa Barbara, and fully endorses their demands.

We are acutely aware that our Black sisters and brothers in Santa Barbara are suffering and have suffered from entrenched and systematic racism. We, our members, and the elected leaders we support cannot be silent in the face of injustice. Now is the time to listen, learn, and let our Black sisters and brothers lead the way towards a brighter and equitable future.

We hope this moment is a turning point. No one can deny the murder of George Floyd for we have watched it. We encourage everyone to listen to BLMSB, continue to protest for change, and hold our leaders accountable to achieve justice.