Solidarity Statement from Northwest Outward Bound School
June 3, 2020
We stand adamantly against police brutality, and the system of racism and inequality that has created and perpetuated an unjust society. The most recent deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and the countless other Black lives lost are deeply disturbing. Unfortunately these deaths are not isolated incidents, but instead demonstrate a clear example of a history of violence against people of color in the United States. We stand in solidarity with Communities of Color and especially Black people right now. This is more than an issue in the outdoor industry, more than a policing issue, it is an issue of health, environment, and justice. It is all encompassing.
At Northwest Outward Bound School we’ve long strived to operate by the values of compassion, integrity, excellence, and inclusion & diversity. However, we know we have not fully lived up to those ideals and we have stayed silent for too long. As a predominantly white-led organization, we recognize that the change must come from within. It begins with recognizing that over 50+ years we have benefitted from a system of white supremacy. We acknowledge our responsibility and commit to speak out and do our part to dismantle the systemic oppression our country has been built upon.
Communities of Color: We see you, we hear you, and we stand next to you as we continue to move to action. NWOBS will share that path with our Outward Bound alumni, partners, and community.
We commit to listening, learning, and changing our ways. We encourage our community to listen to and support organizations doing racial justice work, continue learning about anti-racism and unconscious bias, and call your local and state representatives. Please continue to share resources.
Now is not the time for inaction.
- The entire Northwest Outward Bound School team
Below are some resources to continue the journey of anti-racism:
