INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Democratic Party, the organization that advocates for the future of Indiana and its families, today issued the following statement to honor the start of Black History Month and celebrate the work of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus and their efforts at bringing total equity for all Hoosiers:

“Today marks the start of Black History Month, an annual tradition that celebrates the contributions and successes of Black Americans. As we honor the lives of prestigious scientists, politicians, civil rights leaders, and other cultural icons, let’s also take a moment to thank our essential workers and our frontline workers and remember the Black Hoosiers we’ve lost during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Further, let’s take note of the work that must still be done to bring total equity for Black Hoosiers while we participate in this American tradition. Last year, thousands of Hoosiers braved a pandemic to lend their voice and their call to end systemic racism across the country. The Black Lives Matter Movement sparked a conversation from urban cities to our small towns about why our state and nation must do what we can to level the playing field and deliver true equity for all Black and Brown Hoosiers. 

Last summer inspired conversation, but now, the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus is taking action by introducing a new agenda that would start the process of creating total equity for all Hoosiers and not just a select few.  

The IBLC’s agenda is far-reaching and forward-thinking, and its hybrid approach will continue the important conversations from last summer. From banning chokeholds to implementing de-escalation tactics in law endorsement and by installing a student support program for our Black, Brown, and underserved students — the Caucus is looking to solve today’s challenges while also creating structural change to the future.

The Indiana Democratic Party hopes the rest of the Indiana General Assembly joins the IBLC in passing this important legislation for our Black and Brown communities.” 

-Cordelia Lewis Burks, Vice-Chair of the Indiana Democratic Party

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