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Wednesday, November 23, 2022
Dear Members,
Our hearts are saddened and troubled that, once again, we write to you to address violence in our communities.
The American Choral Directors Association is heartbroken to learn of the shooting that took place at Club Q in Colorado Springs, Colorado. While no motive for this attack has yet to be released, we know that the LGBTQIA+ community has been targeted and subjected to abhorrent hate violence and hate speech in recent years. It is not lost on us that the attack on Club Q fell on the eve of Transgender Day of Remembrance — a further assault on the sense of safety of LGBTQTIA+ persons across the country.
To our LGBTQIA+ colleagues and friends, we stand with you. We acknowledge that in the past, ACDA has not always been on the right side of history and served as an ally for our LGBTQIA+ community. And, while a statement like this alone cannot restore trust or a sense of safety, we resolve to work each and every day to ensure that ACDA is a place of radical welcome and hospitality where all belong. We resolve to engage in restorative practices — to acknowledge, address, and redress past harms.
Universe now dreaming you so deeply
Spirit shining, home within creation
Dreaming in eternal light of wonder
Gently rest now, you the child of angels
Spirit sleeping in the arms of angels
Gently rest . . .
From Considering Matthew Shepard
Michael Dennis Browne and Craig Hella Johnson, text
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