Library Association Statements About Racist Violence in Charlottesville

In the wake of the racist marches by Neo-Nazis and white supremacists in Charlottesville, Virginia last weekend, American library associations have issued important anti-racist statements.

American Library Association: 

"The ALA expresses our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those lost and injured during this weekend’s protests in Charlottesville, Virginia. We will not forget their efforts to enlighten and safeguard their communities from bigotry while opposing racist, anti-immigrant, anti-GLBTQ, and anti-Semitic violence. We stand in solidarity with the people of Virginia as well as anyone who protests hate and fights for equity, diversity and inclusion."

"The vile and racist actions and messages of the white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups in Charlottesville are in stark opposition to the ALA’s core values. No matter the venue or the circumstance, we condemn any form of intimidation or discrimination based on culture, ethnicity, gender, nationality, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Our differences should be celebrated, and mutual respect and understanding should serve as the norms within our society."

"The ALA supports voices of hope as such actions mirror the library community’s efforts to abolish bigotry and cultural invisibility. As we recently stated, ‘we must continue to support the creation of a more equitable, diverse and inclusive society,’ and we will do this through the work of our members and through resources such as Libraries Respond."

"The American Library Association is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with more than 57,000 members in academic, public, school, government, and special libraries. The mission of the American Library Association is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all."

 American Association of Law Libraries:

"The events of this weekend in Charlottesville called to mind our keynote speaker Bryan Stevenson's remarks at the 2017 AALL Annual Meeting in Austin, which called on all of us to change the narrative. As librarians and legal information professionals, we are in a unique position to help change the destructive narrative of bigotry and racial superiority that is currently taking shape in America. As an association, we stand by our core values and affirm our commitment to diversity and inclusion."

"We must keep doing what we have always done--provide information and knowledge in support of our constitutional democracy. No matter the setting in which we work, our efforts support the U.S. justice system and our democracy each and every day. There is no room for racial, or any other form of, discrimination. I take pride in knowing I am a part of a profession that brings knowledge to action. I hope all of you do as well."

"Sincerely, Greg Lambert
President"