MOLA: An Association of Music Performance Librarians stands with all members of our organizations who are of Asian and Pacific Island heritage. We are committed to denouncing racism, violence, and hatred toward our colleagues throughout the United States and the world. As an organization, we celebrate people of all cultures, races, and ethnicities.
- April 2, 2021
We unanimously condemn harassment and violence against the Black community. Our belief is that all people are equal. We continue to learn from history that these beliefs are not always followed, with systemic racism leading to marginalization, disenfranchisement, and death. The murder of George Floyd, and countless others, at the hands of the police manifest the continuing atrocities faced by Black Americans today. We stand by our community and acknowledge that Black Lives Matter.
During this time of dramatic and traumatic historical significance, we are committed to values of social responsibility, including equity and safety for Black librarians, musicians, administrators, vendors, and beyond. A truly open, inclusive, and collaborative environment for all cannot exist without justice for those affected by violence. The labor of dismantling white supremacy and structural racism does not rest solely upon our Black membership and other people of color. White librarians, who comprise a vast majority of the field, have a responsibility to disavow structural racism daily in society and in our industry.
We seek an inclusive profession and to position MOLA as an organization welcoming of, built by, and led by persons of color. The vitality of our libraries and organizations depends on the safety of our work force and social responsibility, justice, and anti-racism in our work. The conversation is always open as to what more we can do, and all suggestions are welcome.
- June 10, 2020