What We Believe
In these challenging times, as thousands of protesters march around the world, the American Academy of Teachers of Singing stands with them in solidarity against the physical acts and mindsets that contribute to racial injustice.
We strive to be inclusive in the celebration, performance, and academic study of diverse cultures and the music they represent and cannot ignore the systemic injustices that affect these same cultures and communities. Our duty as educators and thought leaders is to help increase awareness, and drive change.
For change to come, we must make a concerted, communal effort to be part of the solution. It’s times like these that challenge our commitment to social justice and call into question our own action or inaction. As Elie Wiesel said, “We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.”
Let us sing together and stand with intention.
Black Lives Matter