BUFFALO, NY., (June 18, 2020)—The following statement can be attributed to The Bennett Park Montessori Community Association:

In partnership with the National PTA, and in solidarity with Buffalo Public Schools:

The Montessori Community Association of Bennett Park Montessori — a Preschool to Grade Eight Buffalo Public School — condemns the inequitable and brutal treatment of all African Americans. No human being should fear becoming a victim of racism and brutality. We, like millions of Americans and citizens around the world, are outraged by the killing of another unarmed Black man — George Floyd.  We mourn for those individuals whose lives and ability to reach their full potential have been interrupted by a broken system that has failed to serve them as equals.

The abhorrent and stubborn existence of systemic racism in every level of institution and the racist mindset that perpetuates this injustice has led to mass protests and new hope for an awakening. This injustice continues to have a profound effect on African Americans, communities of color, and on our youth — whose bright and impressionable minds are the future citizen leaders of our city.  Our children, like ourselves, are feeling the hurt, the frustration, the outrage, and fear that this inequality creates. Our nation must do better, our government must do better, our schools must do better!  The Montessori Community Association stands with Black families; with those who seek to inspire meaningful change; with those who continue to do the work of so many great leaders before us.

Freedom is a right we should each be able to enjoy.  Life matters, actions matter, and words matter. There is a saying, "treat others as you wish to be treated."  Each of us must take on that challenge. We will continue to guide our school and community with the Montessori values of peace, empathy, respect, honesty, compassion, integrity, and caring for others. Racism remains a social conflict in America, one which we can choose action to correct.  As a community, we need to be culturally responsive and encourage difficult conversations about racism, diversity and equity.  We will support parents and families who are faced with systemic injustices, as well as those who have yet to have the heavy conversations that are of the utmost importance. 

We welcome members of our community to challenge the status quo and demand that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. This will be difficult work. But together, we can make a difference.  

Establishing lasting peace is the work of education;

all politics can do is keep us out of war.

Maria Montessori

This statement was written by teachers and parents at Bennett Park Montessori, PS 32. To learn more about the movement, see blacklivesmatter.com.