Robbinsdale Area Schools

Optional Moment of Silence Today

Optional Moment of Silence Today

Para leer esto en español, haga clic en el botón que dice 'English' (Inglés) en la parte inferior derecha de la pantalla. (To read this in Spanish, click on the button that says 'English' at the bottom right of the screen.)

Guji badhanka ay ku qoran tahay "Ingiriis" dhinaca midig ee hoose ee shaashadda si aad tani ugu akhriso af Soomaali. (To read this in Somali, click on the button that says 'English' at the bottom right of the screen.)

Dear Robbinsdale Area Schools Families,

Today marks the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s untimely death. Since then, we’ve seen a worldwide movement calling for racial equity and social justice.

Though this tragedy put a sad spotlight on Minnesota, it has also allowed the world to see how our community has taken positive action in many ways, including creating art, participating in peaceful protests and lobbying lawmakers for change.

We’ve also seen and heard students take the center stage and make demands for their future that include a world that is a kinder and gentler place for people of all races, cultures and backgrounds.

There have also been troubling moments that include watching our communities struggle with vandalism, violence and vitriol. Still, in spite of it all, many are pushing for positive change and collectively calling for laws to change, both locally and nationally. 

I know that many people will have different feelings about today’s anniversary of Mr. Floyd’s death and may process it differently. And their opinions and feelings may differ from others. Still, many of us believe this is a time for healing, hope and moving forward as we continue to cultivate a world that is safe for all people.

On Monday, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, issued a proclamation that “asked and encouraged everyone in our state to join me in a moment of silence at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, for 9 minutes and 29 seconds, to honor George Floyd and every person whose life has been cut short due to systems of racism and discrimination in Minnesota.”

In Robbinsdale Area Schools, we have offered our staff and students the choice to participate, or not, and the ability to be flexible on this somber anniversary. This means they can choose to hold a moment of silence earlier or later in the day away from school. They can use time to journal, create art, read and reflect, or continue on with their normal school schedule. This is not a requirement and is based on personal choice and belief systems.

As our community continues to heal and move forward, I thank you for your continued support and partnership. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Stephanie Burrage
Interim Superintendent
Robbinsdale Area Schools

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