Dear Maine Fiddle Camp Community,
We are all shocked and concerned by what’s been happening in our world. The past few weeks have brought an urgently needed global conversation on racism, and many of us are wondering what we can do. MFC is founded on principles of listening to and learning from each other in a spirit of inclusion, humility and respect. Playing music, dancing, dining, and sharing and learning this way together is an act of deep connection and empathy. It allows us to understand each other in ways that words cannot fully express.
Our response to tragedies has always been rooted in recognition of this, as well as our wish for a more peaceful and just world. In order to pursue these ideals, we have worked to be as inclusive as possible to all ages, races, religions, sexual orientations, genders, economic statuses, emotional or physical disabilities, and levels of musical ability. For the same reasons, we have also tried to keep our camps as free of politics as possible.
In discussions I’ve had this week with Maine Fiddle Camp Management Staff we have decided that it is time for us, as an organization, to take a strong public stance against the systemic racism that creates cycles of racialized violence. Silence is not acceptable.
As a gesture of support we are donating to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund to support their efforts in fighting injustice. We would also like to express our support directly to Black members of our community, for whom this moment may be especially traumatic. Please let us know if there is anything that Maine Fiddle Camp can do for you right now.
Finally, as we continue to find ways to reveal, recognize, and remove the deep socioeconomic, political, and cultural systems that have supported racial injustice for too long, we welcome input from all of you, and especially from people of color and other marginalized groups. Feel free to write to us with your thoughts. Together, we will create truly the Best Maine Fiddle Camp Ever!
Douglas Protsik
Director Maine Fiddle Camp