HCL Statement on Racism

Highland Community Library stands with libraries all across the country to condemn systemic racism and racial inequity. As a public institution whose commitment to fairness, justice, and equality is inspired by the values of the communities we serve, our Library seeks to be a trusted resource and a dedicated ally in the struggle against racial injustice and oppression. We stand in solidarity with Black Americans and all people who are dedicated to building a more just, free, and compassionate community and society through individual and collective action.

One of Highland Community Library’s core values is championing the pursuit of lifelong learning. When we stop learning, we stop growing. Books can serve as mirrors that reflect our own identities, experiences, and cultures; affirm our purpose and place in the world; and allow us to feel valued and seen. Books can also open windows to the lived experiences of people whose identities and cultures are different from our own. Our Library recognizes and supports all who are engaged in learning and self-reflection about structural and internalized racism and the ways in which we encounter and disrupt it in ourselves, in each other, and in the wider world. Moving forward, we will engage in the same introspection about our library policies, staff training, programming, and other internal operations; we commit to action toward racial equity and inclusion; and we understand that this work is never done. Our Library also reaffirms our commitment to curate a diverse collection of materials and resources that provide opportunities to not just discover our collective history, but to expand empathy and compassion and enhance our understanding of ourselves and one another.

Our community is only as strong as our commitment to each other. Public libraries have an important role to play in ensuring that all members of our communities and our country have the opportunity to realize their potential and thrive in their own unique ways that, together at our very best, make us a truly vibrant nation. Highland Community Library is here to help our community become informed, knowledgeable, and civically engaged citizens who stand up against prejudice and racism. Each of us has a responsibility to honor the dignity of our fellow humans, and together we can build a community and a world in which anti-racism is the standard and respect, compassion, and solidarity are the guiding principles that lead us forward into a better future.

Ashlee B. Kiel, Library Director

6/8/2020