By WKTV Staff
Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, in the wake of the death of George Floyd and resulting protests in Grand Rapids and across the county, on Monday issued a statement through the district superintendent’s office condemning both racism in any form but also anti-racism protest violence in any form.
The statement not only commented on the death of Floyd, an African-American, while in custody of Minneapolis, Minn., policemen, but also on the district’s own ongoing efforts to combat racism. (A Spanish language version of the statement is available at the end of this article.)
“Our hearts go out to the family of Mr. George Floyd as they mourn his tragic death,” the June 1 statement from the Godfrey-Lee Public School’s Superintendent Kevin Polston reads. “Many in our country are hurting as Mr. Floyd’s death is yet another reminder of the impact systemic racism has on people of color in America.
“It is the responsibility of those with privilege and power to create change to utilize their influence for the betterment of our society. We cannot continue on the slow trajectory we are on and expect to achieve equality. Change must happen now and we call on protesters to continue to demand change, but to do so in a peaceful manner.”
The district statement points out that earlier this year, the Godfrey-Lee Public Schools Board of Education approved an equity policy to guide our work in creating an equitable education system for each member of our school family. (The policy is available here.)
A key action from the policy pointed out in the statement is as follows:
“Interrupt and dismantle harmful or inequitable practices and policies, eliminate implicit and explicit biases, and create truly inclusive, culturally responsive, antiracist school environments for adults and children.”
Superintendent Polston then closes the statement this way:
“This is our promise to the community,” Polston said.” You have my full commitment to use the access, voice, privilege, and authority I have to create change. … To use an analogy, there is enough food at the table for everyone to eat, but that means some will have to eat less so that all can be nourished. … The future of our children is at stake, we cannot stand by and watch.”
