This message was sent out to the CCA community on January 7, 2021.

Dear CCA Community,

The insurrection that took place in our nation’s capitol yesterday was shocking. It was a stunning display of white privilege, abuse of power, and willful disregard for truth and fairness, things that have no place in our society and stand in stark opposition to the values of our CCA community. It was also a jarring contrast to the day before, when we saw a glimpse of the promise our fragile democracy still holds.

On Tuesday I, like many of you, watched late into the night as returns came in from the Senate races in Georgia—races in which voters—especially young, African American, and marginalized voters—defied intense suppression efforts and turned out to make their voices heard. We owe a debt of gratitude to Stacey Abrams, Keisha Lance Bottoms, and the multitudes of others—including members of our own CCA community—who worked tirelessly to register voters, get people to the polls, and reclaim our democracy. 

What that mob did yesterday—what they were incited and enabled to do—is unconscionable. But the chambers they defiled will soon be occupied by the two newly elected senators from Georgia, who will join an incoming administration that is much more closely aligned with the values of equity, social justice, environmental sustainability, education, fairness, and diversity that underpin our work as members of CCA’s creative community.

The creativity and determination of young people, like our students, has inspired us throughout this challenging year. In the midst of darkness and cynicism, we are also witnessing the kind of creative activism that will make meaningful change in our world. 

Sincerely,

Steve