District statement on racially motivated violent attacks

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GBSD Statement on Racially Motivated Violent Attacks

Dear GBSD Staff and Families,

We were horrified as we watched the news over the weekend about the racially motivated violent attacks in Buffalo, New York, and Laguna Woods, California. 

While these events did not happen locally, for some they feel very personal. The Gresham-Barlow School District serves a diverse community and we hold and honor that diversity as our strength. We know that we are indeed stronger together and that when one of our communities is attacked we cannot stay silent.

The Gresham-Barlow School District stands with Buffalo and Laguna Woods in spirit and solidarity as they cope with this loss and as they heal. We stand with the Black and Asian communities targeted by these attacks. As a district, we encourage all to openly denounce division, racism, and hate speech in all its forms, at all times  In Oregon, hate crimes have risen sharply in the last two years and we know we must work together to make sure everyone in our community and in our schools knows they can find safety and belonging.

Sincerely,

James Hiu

Superintendent of Schools

Resources on how to talk about these events with your children:

Talking With Your Children About Tragic Events

Anti-Racism for Kids: An Age-by-Age Guide to Fighting Hate

Mental Health Support:

If you or a family member needs help with mental health, the district’s Care Solace Team is available to assist students, staff, and families in finding treatment options to match your needs regardless of the circumstance.