1/8/2021

A LETTER TO OAKLAND FAMILIES ADDRESSING





​THE INSURRECTION AT THE CAPITOL. 

Dear Families, 
 
In the wake of a turbulent year marked by insecurity, fear, anxiety and grief, many are left in disbelief over the unprecedented insurrection that unfolded in the US Capitol on Wednesday, January 6th. We watched the assault on American Democracy and the destruction and blatant disregard of federal property and public servants. 

Many of us likely feel exhausted. This event adds to the compounded stress for Black, Indigenous People of Color who have gone through so much including exacerbated hardships of systemic racism and inequity illuminated by COVID-19, the emotional toll and labor of rallying against police brutality, and a volatile election season. We understand the pain of this moment is not isolated. As we face the ongoing resurfacing of institutional racism, we must collectively seek ways to heal ourselves and our community. 

Today we want to remind our community that we all stand on the shoulders of our ancestors who experienced and overcame unimaginable challenges (slavery, the walk of tears, the fight for civil rights, fleeing homelands due to violence and persecution, the Jim Crow era, genocide, Exclusion Acts, WWII and border separations, interment camps, civil wars, etc.). Our ancestors’ strength and resilience is embedded in our DNA and we can call on that ancestral medicine and wisdom to aid us in our healing. We want to remind parents and caregivers that right now self-care is absolutely essential. Loving, supporting and being present with your family and loved ones is a balm for times like these.

Lotus Bloom remains committed to uplifting and supporting Oakland families to come together as a community to provide children with a rich learning foundation. Most of all, we want you to know that you can count on us to continue providing family-centered programs and resources that center you, your healing, your growth and empowerment. We encourage you to take care of yourself and nurture your connection with loved ones, take time to breathe deeply, practice moments of mindfulness, incorporate gratitude, recharge in nature and seek ways to nourish your soul. 

We love you and we are here for you, always.

In Caring Community,
 All of us at Lotus Bloom