Message on Spokane Wildfires

We, the Joint Council of Librarians of Color, Inc. (JCLC, Inc.), wish to express our concern and thoughts for the safety and well-being of the people of Spokane and surrounding communities affected by wildfires. Our hearts are with you. 

JCLC, Inc. has been working with Visit Spokane, Spokane Convention Center, and various local businesses in the area in preparation for the 5th Joint Conference of Librarians of Color to be held in the city this coming October 7 – 11. These partners have been tremendously helpful in making sure our conference will be a success. The communities in the region exemplify our values to uplift, encourage, and empower each other during these challenging times. 

We want to show our local contacts, from caterers to librarians, our dedication and commitment and we hope that you can join us in Spokane as it is one meaningful way we can come together to support the local economy of this beautiful city and its people. In the meantime, if you would like to support recovery efforts, here are some organizations that are working with local communities where you can donate: 

• American Red Cross Northwest Region
• H.O.M.E. Starts Here Donations – City of Spokane, Washington
• Wildfire Response – Innovia Foundation
• The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon (CTWS) Wildfire Recovery Fund
• Cedar Fund Wildfire Recovery Campaign
• CERF+ | The Craft Emergency Relief Fund
• National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives | Society of American Archivists

Stay strong, Spokane! We will see you in October!