Last June the Academy issued a statement recognizing the racial inequality endemic in our nation and in institutions such as ours. The senseless death of Daunte Wright on April 11, and the recent spate of attacks against Asian-Americans, particularly women, are yet more signs of the violent racism that has become almost a commonplace in American culture.
As artists, architects, composers, and writers who are devoted to the enrichment of our culture, and some of whose work and very lives are threatened, we commit ourselves more than ever not only to protest these brutalities but to act to create a culture in which everyone’s right to travel the streets in safety is treasured and protected.
Board of Directors
April 14, 2021
Note: In support of this statement, the Board of Directors approved a $5,000 donation to the New York Women’s Foundation and $5,000 to the Southern Poverty Law Center–two remarkable organizations that have done so much to fight racism and inequality. The board believes this donation is consistent with its intentions and how we can implement our words.