AIMS Board Statement on Anti-racism

American Institute for Maghrib Studies, July 2020

The American Institute for Maghrib Studies (AIMS) opposes unequivocally racial discrimination and white supremacy. It actively supports racial equality and social justice. As scholars and members of AIMS, we stand in solidarity with Black Lives Matter in the aftermath of the senseless killing of Black citizens, most recently, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Rayshard Brooks, and too many others. Unsurprisingly, their deaths have provoked protests and debate internationally, including in North Africa. We join our voices to those condemning police brutality as well as other forms of systemic racism and racial violence wherever they occur around the world.

AIMS is a non-profit educational institution that facilitates research in North Africa and encourages the free exchange of information between American and North African scholars. We adhere to the principles of human rights and we seek to promote the ideals of inclusion, equality, and diversity in our work. We recognize that in a moment like this, professing virtues is not enough. We will work to enhance our efforts to contribute to a more just and safe world.