Statement on the Killing of George Floyd

In keeping with its mission, and in solidarity with many around the world, the African Literature Association strongly condemns the murder by police officers of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Floyd is only one of many victims of historical violence targeting people of African descent in the United States, which has become even more visible in the age of new media and with the rise of neofascist and white supremacist rhetoric. We categorically deplore systemic racism and unjustifiable acts of brutality, directed against black people and all marginalized groups anywhere in the world. We join the rest of the world in calling for a transparent investigation into the killing, and call on concerned authorities to take seriously the task of securing the lives of all citizens, especially the most vulnerable.