We stand in solidarity against the injustices and horrific violence (in words and actions) that have been carried out for far too long against black people and all people of color. The light of awareness must shine on (and undo) the systemic racism that continues to cause suffering and death in the black community.
We believe our society, our leaders and we as individuals have a lot of work to do; work that must be done through taking an honest and uncomfortable look at our own prejudices and where we are falling short in standing up for black lives. Work that leads to real action and sustainable change. This must not be a one-time march or a singular moment of reflection, this must be a new way of living and a thoughtful continuous process of responding to the question: How can I contribute to ending this suffering and injustice?
We are listening, we are reflecting, we are willing to do the work, we will take action and we will rise up – not just in this moment but from now on.
Black lives matter.