We’re Not Going Anywhere
In our line of work, we don’t often feel compelled to make many public statements. That is predominantly a function of the fact that given how much systemic oppression still exists, it’s almost impossible to determine which incidents merit the statement and which don’t. Over the last two weeks, the current administration’s shock and awe tactics, along with the public response and what feels like overwhelming levels of panic, have us dusting off our letterhead to lend our perspective to the mix.
While Trump’s Executive Orders have been uniquely aggressive, this administration has been very clear about the level of bigotry and greed they intend to move with while using the full force of all three branches of our government to undo decades of civil rights legislation and social progress. These tactics are not new. Coming for DEI is not new. By trying to dismantle DEI initiatives, they're doubling down by sending a clear message about who they think belongs and who they think doesn't. But here's the thing – diversity makes us stronger, equity makes us better, and inclusion makes us whole. We won't let them drag us backwards. The only way to deal with this is to remain unwavering in our focus on the goals ahead. We understand that this level of authoritarian leadership, with its clear path towards outright fascism, is scary. We can’t blink. We can’t let their big, aggressive shows of violence do what they hope they’ll do – which is overwhelm, divide, and ultimately disengage us. If there is anything good we can take from this, it’s that what we’re doing is working. We hit a nerve, so let’s not let up now.
We take this very seriously, so we plan to stay focused on what we’ve always been about – changing unfair systems from the ground up, starting with how we work together. When you try to make things fair for everyone, some powerful people who benefit from keeping things unfair won't like it. Throughout our country's history, fighting for equity has often been called "too radical,” and there have been periods in history where it’s been unlawful. We're facing similar pushback today. That's why we're doubling down on what works: staying focused on our goals, centering relationships, teaming up with other organizations, supporting our communities, and finding creative solutions to new challenges. Yes, these new policies will hurt people, which is why our focus is so important. Find your role in this fight and lean in.
We're not going anywhere. We’re here for the long haul, and we're in this together.
