Calgary Roller Derby stands in solidarity with the black, indigenous and people of colour in our city and across the country who are standing up and demanding justice, and change, in light of the recent killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade and Ahmaud Arbery.
The recent deaths of Regis Korchinski-Paquet in Toronto and Chantel Moore in Edmunston have demonstrated that this is not an issue exclusive to the United States. We, as Canadians, need to take this time to reflect on our own legacy of racism and strengthen our communities so that incidents like these never happen again.
Calgary Roller Derby has brought its code of conduct in line with that of WFTDA and strives to be a welcoming, inclusive organization. However, we can do better. We will be reviewing our policies and procedures, including recruiting and disciplinary, to ensure that CRD is a place everyone can feel welcome.
The fight against racism does not begin and end with protests. It is an ongoing effort for individuals, companies and even sports leagues. Included below is a list of just a few resources for people to consider as they listen to those who live this systemic racism every day.
Check out the Black Lives Matter website – there are a lot of great resources and information.
Write to your politicians. Specifically, ask what they intend to do about racial profiling in policing and funding to non-violent community support programs.
Find your Calgary City Councillor.
Find your MLA here.
Find your MP here.
Baller Shot Caller released a video specifically on the Black experience in roller derby. Find it here.
An extensive (and growing) list of resources for anti-racism and unlearning. Understanding everyday racism is the key to stopping it.
We urge our fellow skaters and citizens to stand with those who are fighting racism, put in the work to be an anti-racist, and become a true ally while we work towards building a more equitable society.
Thank you,
Calgary Roller Derby
Board of Directors
