The Colorado Society of School Psychologists (CSSP) condemns the cowardly acts of racism that took place at the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center during the NASP Conference. We stand in solidarity with Dr. Celeste Malone, her students, her family, her peers, and members of the school psychology community that have been harmed in our beloved city and state. The behavior of the Loss Prevention team at the Hyatt Regency at the Colorado Convention Center on Wednesday, February, 8th, 2023 was unacceptable and serves as a painful reminder that acts of racism and inequality still permeate our society. The Colorado Society of School Psychologists stands against all forms of racism and inequality. The mission of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (DEIC) is to advocate for school communities and systems that promote equity and fairness through social justice and culturally­ responsive professional practices that honor the rights, dignity, and worth of disempowered populations. This painful example of racism in our state demonstrates the need for continued efforts in social justice in order to reduce acts of racism and inequity.

We thank Dr. Malone for her leadership, and her contributions to the field of school psychology, and to the NASP 2023 Convention. The racist underpinnings of society seeped into this conference and we are angry that the Hyatt did not embody the spirit of the conference theme: Radical Hope and Authentic Healing.

Just as we do in our daily work as school psychologists, we will continue to raise our voices against injustice and act in our daily lives to stand up for the persecuted and protect the vulnerable.

In solidarity,

The Colorado Society of School Psychologists (CSSP)  

CSSP-Letter_Hyatt_NASP2023.pdf

DEIC Statement.pdf

CSSP letter to Dr. Malone.pdf