Mass Liberation AZ

COVID-19 Public Statement

COVID-19 is deadly for Black people: Black people, and other marginalized communities, are disproportionately suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic, and systemic racism often causes fatal outcomes for Black people seeking healthcare. 

As abolitionists, we recognize the power of collective action in dismantling oppressive systems and fighting for the rights and freedom of all individuals. The following COVID-19 precautions demonstrate our commitment to protecting the well-being of our fellow community members, especially those who are vulnerable or marginalized. Just as we challenge the status quo and work towards liberation, we must also challenge prevailing attitudes and behaviors that disregard the importance of setting robust standards for community care. Together as abolitionists, we can create a society that fights for liberation and actively works towards safeguarding the health and safety of all its members.

  • We keep us safe: Our choice to mask and follow other safety measures reflects our commitment to community and collective care.
  • We center the leadership of directly impacted people: bell hooks taught us that those closest to the problem are also closest to the solution, so we trust and follow the best practices set forth by disabled and immunocompromised communities. 
  • We have an obligation to create accessible and liberatory spaces: The pandemic has not ended and, as organizers in solidarity with disability justice organizations, we must take consistent precaution (including masking) to stop the spread. 
  • Requiring masking IS respecting bodily autonomy: By ensuring access for all individuals, we set a standard for community care that doesn’t exclude disabled and immunocompromised people.

OUR COMMITMENTS

In-Person Events and Actions:

  • Mass Liberation AZ (MLAZ) organizers and volunteers are required to wear KN95 masks, N95 masks, or respirators any time they are representing MLAZ in public, including outdoor events.
  • Attendees of our in-person events are required to wear KN95 masks, N95 masks, or respirators. KN95 masks and hand sanitizer will be available at all in-person events and actions. 
  • MLAZ will give preference to outdoor spaces and large, well-ventilated spaces, and will include a virtual option of attending in-person events when possible.
  • At each in-person event we host there will be a designated volunteer to hand out personal protective equipment (PPE), including asking individuals wearing surgical or cloth masks to switch to provided KN95, and ensure that people are safely masking.
  • Attendees who refuse to practice community care by masking will be asked to leave the event. 

Collaborations and Co-Hosting: 

  • MLAZ organizers will seek agreement on logistics related to COVID and accessibility early in the collaborating process and commit to leave partnerships, sponsorships, and endorsements that are not willing to adhere to this policy. 

Reference List: