The Indiana High School Forensic Association is deeply saddened by the tragic instances of violence and unnecessary loss of life that permeated our news cycles this summer. We share in the anger, frustration, and grief felt by those who mourn and stand in solidarity with those who seek peaceful means to create communities free of discrimination.

Racism runs counter to our mission and has no place within our organization. The IHSFA is committed to standing up for justice and equal opportunity. We embrace and encourage civil discourse, open-mindedness, and critical thinking. We promise to be an organization that celebrates diversity and provides an outlet for our students to promote peace.

We recognize that much like our social landscape, there is much work to be done in our own organization. Currently, our leadership is developing plans to reinforce our commitment to being a more diverse and welcoming community.

For now, let us reflect on the words of Thurgood Marshall, who once quipped: I wish I could say that racism and prejudice were only distant memories. We must dissent from the indifference. We must dissent from the apathy. We must dissent from the fear, the hatred, and the mistrust... We must dissent because America can do better, because America has no choice but to do better.