On January 23, 2022, attendees of the REFORMA General Membership Meeting were targets of a zoom bombing attack in which persons used racial slurs and hate speech against women. It is very unfortunate that despite the many contributions made to society by the BIPOC community, women, and other marginalized groups, they are still targets of hate by those who do not see them as equals and deserving of dignity and respect. This is shameful, disgusting, and wrong, and must not be tolerated.

BCALA condemns racism and sexism in all forms, in all spaces, and on all platforms. In addition, BCALA respects the rights and feelings of all persons regardless of race, gender, religion, creed, nationality, ability, and socioeconomic background to feel safe and respected in all spaces and on all platforms. Further, BCALA welcomes everyone from all walks of life with open arms, open minds, and open hearts.

BCALA stands firm in its belief that there is no justification whatsoever for hate. We stand in strong and unwavering solidarity with REFORMA and with the other National Associations of Librarians of Color – the Chinese American Librarians Association, the American Indian Library Association, and the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association.

About BCALA

The Black Caucus of the American Library Association serves as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of African American librarians.