It has come to our attention that Bev Barnum and Cameron Whitten intend to restart the WOM (Wall of Moms); which is taking place after Bev started controlling the WOM Twitter account. We are aware that Bev is planning to organize a $20,000 fundraiser to buy frontline gear.

Collectively, as frontline + direct action abolitionists, activists and educators, we are making a public statement confirming that the continued Black Lives Matter movement (BLM) is to be solely led by and centering Black people.

Bev’s actions - past and present - have been harmful to the Black community. She has a demonstrated history of disrespect of Black leadership and a fundamental lack of understanding of Black Lives Matter as a movement, as a necessity, and as a community.

Furthermore, Bev lacks the leadership, communication and technical skills to contribute to this movement in a positive way.

We, as frontline and direct action leaders in PDX, stand together to say that we do not support Bev or Cameron’s work and will not endorse any leaders - white, POC or Black - that align themselves with their brand of appropriative activism.

In solidarity,

Ragina Rage, Amber Boydston, Rashelle Chase, Destiny Houston, Lenia Mendoza, Rhiannon Patterson, Jaime Golden Cale, LaQuisha Minnieweather, MxM Bloc PDX

We understand that our non-Black accomplices play an important role, which starts by following Black leadership.