Black Lives Matter

Dear Members and Friends of The Center,

“I Can’t Breathe.” George Floyd’s last words, and Eric Garner’s, have come to represent other indefensible deaths of Black people at the hands of the police: Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Michael Brown, Jr., Tanisha Anderson, Tamir Rice, and so many, many more; in addition to the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery and Trayvon Martin, and others like theirs, at the hands of racist vigilantes.

The state-sanctioned and extrajudicial killing of Black people—with impunity and depraved indifference to their humanity—must stop.

The Center for Fiction stands in fierce solidarity with all who denounce white supremacy and police violence, and with all who seek systemic change in the pursuit of justice and equality in America.

In affirmation, The Center continues its fervent commitment to diversity, reflected in its staffing, governance, programming, fellowships, public school programs, and partnerships throughout the New York City community and beyond.

More than ever, we celebrate the work of Black writers, whose accomplishments and contributions to American and world culture are immeasurable.

We pledge passionately to redouble our efforts to make change happen through ever more inclusive programming and community engagement.

And as many take time to educate themselves about the history of our country that has led us directly to where we stand today, The Center for Fiction offers a selection of books to help young and adult readers talk about racism, and live by what they learn there.

Sincerely,
The Center for Fiction Board of Directors and Staff

June 5, 2020