The deaths of Ahmed Aubrey, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd are intolerable. They come in the midst of an international health crisis which has exacerbated the racial disparities in our country. At the Boston Music Project, we stand committed to our black and brown individuals and communities. This week, I have been listening. I have taken time to talk with our BMP staff and families about the things that they are going through and how, together, we will move forward and best support our communities of color.
We stand committed to listening, learning, and reflecting on best practices for inclusion and equity.
We stand committed to continuing to build a more diverse team of Teaching Artists and staff that reflect our ideals and vision for the future.
We stand committed to addressing systemic racism and injustice head on with grace and determination.
And, we stand committed to showing up every day for the young people we serve, guiding them on a path to build a more just and equitable society for future generations.
The mission of BMP goes far beyond music. The foundation of our work has always been to ensure that all children have access to a safe, nurturing community to build connections, confidence, and develop the tools to be compassionate and active citizens in their communities. The words of artist and activist, Nina Simone, ring true this week more than ever. “An artist’s duty is to reflect the times...and at this crucial time in our lives, when everything is so desperate, I don’t think we [as artists] can help but to be involved….We will shape and mold this country or it will not be molded and shaped at all.” Standing in solidarity,
Christopher Schroeder Executive Director