CYCLE stands for Black lives.

Black Lives Matter.

Dear CYCLE family and friends, 

In the midst of the current resistance and uprisings against racism and white supremacy, so many of us are collectively searching for ways forward. The day-to-day threats to the health and safety of Black people and other communities of color in the United States have been laid bare over the past three months, especially in this past week. And, the intersectional analysis and action that is necessary from ALL of us to ensure that we are not complicit in the continued oppression of Black liberation, indigenous sovereignty, women’s rights, gender inclusivity, the dignity of people of color, economic justice, and the sustainability of our planet, have never been more imperative.  

Today, as we remember and say the names of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, and David McAtee, we do so in the face of a system that will continue to add names to the list of Black people whose lives it has failed to protect unless we fight back. While the demand to “Stop killing us!” should be enough, we know that it is not. We must organize to build the relationships, leadership, and power necessary to fight back and grow the just and loving communities, institutions, and systems we know we deserve. 

Black lives matter. This truth, which should be self-evident, is a driving force behind the work we will continue to do in solidarity with our partners in Providence and in communities throughout New England and nationally. Please join us. 

In solidarity,

The CYCLE Team