A Message to Our Community,

The Canton Community Association (CCA) Board stands in solidarity to mourn the deaths of George Floyd, Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery - and so many other people before them - whose lives were unjustly taken at the hands of police and whose deaths have yet to be fully and promptly addressed by our justice system. The pattern of violence against Black people has existed from the beginning of our nation’s history and continues to form the basis of the very systems of government and society in which we operate today.

As leaders and residents in our community, we must incorporate anti-racism in all aspects of our endeavors as we live, work, play, and learn in Canton. Anti-racism conversations are a part of a journey to examine our organizational values and practices. We promise to evaluate how our words and actions serve to perpetuate the status quo or challenge and deconstruct it. We are committed to continuous improvement.

We respect and acknowledge that many of us are overcome with sadness, hopelessness, and rage. We understand that everyone will process these traumas in different manners, and honor the space necessary to do so.

The CCA believes in the power of peaceful protests and welcomes the right of all people to make their voices heard as guaranteed by the 1st Amendment. We encourage everyone who joins the protests to protect themselves and others by wearing masks and to familiarize yourself with your rights.

We will continue to represent and nurture a community that is collaborative, caring, and welcoming to all.

To remain silent, would be to accept the status quo.

Torbin Green, CCA Outreach Chair
CCA Board 2020