Standing in Solidarity
5 Steps to Take Action Now Against Racism
How does one begin to comprehend the recent racial atrocities and senseless deaths of black men such as George Floyd? When the world seems to be spinning out of control, it is vital to pause, listen, learn, and seek understanding. There is much we do not understand, but one thing we know for certain:
The hatred must stop.
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”― Nelson Mandela, Long Walk to Freedom
What can you do? Take action. Do not accept the status quo. We must seek deeper understanding, and commit to rooting out hatred. As a country, we can do better. As humans, we can do better. To do our part, we must at least start.
- Self-assess, and be honest with yourself to recognize your own biases. Seek equity education and better understanding around implicit and unconscious biases. Commit to learning--and whenever necessary, to unlearning-- in an effort to reduce racial bias in yourself and your children.
- Become an Ally For Change. Read, learn, listen, and speak up. Start the change in yourself first, then with your family, friends, and community. Wake up and step up. Be active in your pursuit to Be The Change.
- Call and write to your state representative and your senator. Be factual. Offer a personal story and its impact. Offer solutions. Encourage others to do the same. Many voices are better than silence.
- Sign petitions that demand change and seek justice. Or start your own: More info here. This peaceful step matters and can ignite change.
- Show your support in nonviolent ways. If you join a protest in person, do so peacefully. Protect yourself. Protect others. Protect our community and businesses’ property.
We hope that you, too, will stand in solidarity, with a renewed commitment to bringing about more inclusiveness and positive change to our homes, workplaces and communities.
We will listen. We will learn. We will speak up.
We will stand in solidarity.