2020 has been filled with unexpected turns and challenges, creating new realities for many people all across the world. Unfortunately, the events of the past week have reminded us that the reality for Black Americans has remained largely unchanged throughout our country’s history. The reality is that the dehumanization and murder of Black Americans by those we’ve empowered to protect our communities have become commonplace in our society. The reality is — unless we change, nothing changes.
We can no longer be silent. We can no longer be still. We can no longer exercise our privilege to stand to the side and view police brutality as someone else’s problem.
At The Starr Conspiracy, we accept the responsibility we have to stand for justice. We proudly stand beside the people throughout the country who have united to protest the killings of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Sandra Bland, Freddie Gray, Oscar Grant, Eric Garner, Atatiana Jefferson, Alton Sterling, Trayvon Martin, Botham Jean, and all those killed under similar circumstances. We will continue to support and stand with the masses raising their voices in the streets with the message that we will no longer tolerate the systemic racism and injustices directed at the Black community.
It’s time for change. It’s time to stand up. It’s time to take action.
Educate yourself. Read more. Listen more. Specifically to Black voices. It is imperative that we take the initiative to educate ourselves on the issues facing the Black community. Start here with this publicly sourced list of anti-racism resources.
Show your support. Protests are just one way to stand alongside our fellow Americans pushing for change. If you are able, support the organizations that are actively making a difference in Black communities every day. Donate resources, donate time, and continue to contribute in meaningful ways.
Take action. We can no longer stand idle when we witness injustices and racist acts in our community. We must actively fight against racism. Change won’t come until we all stand up and take action. Become an ally. Do not be silent.
Vote. And not just in November. Do your part to impact the local community and demand accountability from those we empower to safeguard our citizens and country. Register to vote, and encourage others in your community to do so.
At The Starr Conspiracy, we’ve committed to:
- Educate ourselves and our employees: Our first step is an agency-wide meeting June 3 to discuss the current state of race relations in America and provide a forum for discussion on how we make a larger impact within our community.
- Supporting People of Color in the community. For six years, The Starr Conspiracy has been a supporter of Springdale Elementary School, a Title 1 school in Fort Worth. Our employees mentor students, sponsor writing camps to prepare for state testing, and raise money for supplies. We are aware we need to do more, but we are proud of our partnership.
- Show support to organizations making a difference: In addition to our time and resources, we will be making ongoing financial contributions to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Color of Change, and the ACLU. We will also match all employee contributions going forward.
These are unprecedented times, but until we all stand up and take action — racism and police brutality will remain constant. It’s time for change.
