The Mockingbird Society stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and with those working to end the racism and the continued injustices inflicted on communities of color. We stand with the families who have lost their loved ones at the hands of racism. Their lives mattered. We will honor George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Manuel Ellis, Charleena Lyles, and the countless others who have lost their lives to police brutality and white supremacy.

Dear Mockingbird Community,

In a time of crisis, Mockingbird Families find creative ways to support each other

It’s the first Saturday of the month, and my husband and I look forward to seeing the bright faces that make up our Mockingbird Family. Two brand new foster families have joined the constellation this week, and we can’t wait to meet the precious little ones that have been welcomed into their homes.

Last month, King County opened the doors to the disputed new juvenile jail. I, like many other service providers, had the opportunity to tour the facility. I noticed art, welcoming words written on the hallways, a library, a new gym advertising yoga classes and team sports, a computer room, a recreation room with games, and “real furniture.” This new facility, or “justice center”, is obviously embellished. However, hanging artwork and painting the walls bright colors doesn’t mask the fact that this facility is a jail for CHILDREN, one that is intended to take them from our community.