Response to the Club Q attack in Colorado Springs

I am writing to address the horrific attack on the LGBTQ+ community that occurred on November 20th, the eve of the Transgender Day of Remembrance.

This brutal attack has stolen the lives of five individuals with many more injured at the scene, renewing past traumas throughout LGBTQ+ communities the world over. Our hearts and condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims of this devastating act of violence and bigotry.

The Pottery Northwest team, leadership, and board of directors condemn and reject this depraved and hateful attack in the strongest terms. We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community who are mourning not just the loss of individuals in their community, but for their own sense of freedom, wellbeing, and belonging. No one should have to question their safety simply for being who they are.

At Pottery Northwest, we embrace and celebrate the diversity of our clay community. In doing our part to combat hate and bigotry, our team is working intentionally to ensure our space reflects the inclusionary, equitable, and anti-racist values that all people deserve — particularly those who have been unjustly and unfairly outcast for being who they are or loving who they wish to love.

Our team is proud to call ourselves an ally, to be a safe space, and to continue implementing and refining the necessary policy shifts so we can be better and safer for those who need us the most.

With love and light,

Ed King
Executive Director
Pottery Northwest