Anti-racism is essential to anti-sexual violence work

June 10, 2020

As CAASE continues to do its work exposing and ending sexual harm, we join with everyone who is grieving, finding hope where brave protestors are creating it, and working harder to expose and end white supremacy. We are also standing and saying Black Lives Matter. We know it is not remotely enough to say these words—it is urgent that we figure out new and better ways of transforming that sentiment into a reality. 

Building equity is foundational to all our work at CAASE because we have long recognized that sexual harm is both a symptom and a cause of inequality. Girls and women, queer folks, immigrants, people with disabilities, those with low-income, and people of color are at the greatest risk. Opposing oppression like anti-Black hatred is key to addressing sexual violence. In this moment, we are creating even more space to focus on the struggle for Black liberation, freedom, and justice. 

CAASE is made up of diverse and passionate people and we’re thankful to be supported by you—a member of a diverse and passionate group of individuals and institutions who sustain us. Our efforts will not always be perfect but we will continue to listen, learn, and strive to create a more equitable world. Thankfully, Black women have been showing us the way for a long time and are among our most powerful and effective leaders for social justice. We urge you to join us in following the wisdom of women like Michelle Alexander, Felicia Davis, Tarana Burke, and so many more.

You are likely experiencing the same trauma and exhaustion we are from witnessing so much cruelty, indifference, and ignorance. But we are also being lifted up by the manifest evidence of so much love, resilience, creativity, and passion for justice. We have to continue saying the names of Black people, including women, who have died as a result of police brutalities such as Breonna Taylor, Charleena Chavon Lyles, Korryn Gaines, and Sandra Bland. We have to continue demanding accountability and real change from institutions and political leaders. We must continue the fight to ensure the sentiment and political statement turns into a reality: Black Lives Matter.