To our members:

Several days ago, the AAUW California Board of Directors released a statement expressing our strong stance against injustice and anti-Black racism. Some members have taken the time to share their thoughtful reactions, which we appreciate. In response, AAUW California has expanded its earlier statement to further clarify its stance and to address some of the comments we received.

AAUW California values our individual members and welcomes all input. We understand that our members represent a wide range of ideological viewpoints. However, AAUW and AAUW California speak with one voice, and that is the voice of justice for and equal treatment of all persons. This concept is at the core of our Public Policy Priorities. The AAUW vision includes several ideological pillars, one of which is advocacy “to guarantee equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse and inclusive society.” These policies are developed with input from our members, who also vote on the final statement before it is published. They are also consistent with AAUW National’s stand on civil rights: “AAUW advocates for equality, individual rights, and social justice for a diverse society.”

To those who feel we have gone beyond our mission statement to promote equity for women and girls, we remind you of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” To those who feel our words were too strong, we remind you of the words of Malala Yousafzai: “I raise up my voice – not so that I can shout, but so those without a voice can be heard.” And to those who feel we should not be in the business of condemning police brutality, we remind you of the words of George Floyd: “I can’t breathe.”