Dear FLOC Family,
Honestly, this is hard to write. Like you, I’ve been watching the news, reading articles, talking with loved ones, and trying to understand why history keeps repeating. The recent murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and the tragic deaths of too many Black Americans reflect the systematic and brutal racism that has plagued this country since its inception. It’s a wound we have yet to heal.
In the midst of all of this, my heart is with our students who were already challenged by a virus keeping them inside, and out of school. My heart is with our parents who have to manage their well-being and household, while trying to explain what’s happening in the world to your kids, but also wanting to protect their innocence. FLOC Students and Parents, I see you.
We must do everything in our power to dismantle racism and bias. When we are silent, we fail ourselves and our children. FLOC has always believed that everyone, especially children, deserve equality and access; that no one should be left behind. We know that education is one of the most powerful tools we can use to fight injustice, and we are committed to continuing that fight. I want every child to know that the staff here at FLOC sees you. That you matter. That your life matters. That we are not afraid to say, Black Lives Matter. We will continue fighting for you until you are ready to pick up the torch and carry it for the next generation.
While the world may feel uncertain, we are standing here with you. We will continue to connect with you and provide what you need to stay on track. Please visit our site and socials for regularly updated and curated resources to help during these trying times. We’re also excited about our summer program and pairing you with tutors from across the country who are dedicated to helping you succeed.
One thing this pandemic has taught all of us is to work with what we’ve got. And what we have is an abundance of volunteers and donors who are committed to supporting EVERY one of you. We have a staff that is devoted to your success. My promise to each and every one of you is that we will channel all of the emotions we are feeling into creating safe spaces for you to learn, grow, and be yourselves.
FLOC was founded during the Civil Rights Era to create a refuge for children when systems and society fail. For the past 55 years, we have worked to empower the children of Washington DC and show them that they deserve a bright future, and we will not stop. FLOC’s fight against injustice is through education, and we promise you, we will never stop fighting for your right to the tools you need to discover yourself to ultimately change the world around you.
-Brandelyn Anderson
Executive Director, FLOC
