This Is a Time for Us to Stand Together
In 1992, I recall watching on television as violence exploded in Los Angeles after the verdict in the Rodney King case was read out. The entire nation had seen the video of Mr. King being assaulted by police officers and struck more than 50 times with police batons. Many were incredulous at the verdict. I remember thinking “What has happened to our country?”
In the 28 years hence, much has changed in the United States. The internet has become embedded in the ways in which we interact with and understand our world, and we have become a nation dependent on small devices to work and communicate. We recovered after 9/11, and the Great Recession. The country grew wealthier.
And at the same time, much has not changed. The murder of George Floyd, amidst a pandemic that has exposed great inequities among marginalized and vulnerable communities of color, has outraged Americans of every age, race, gender and demographic. The senseless killing of Black people – whether Mr. Floyd, or Breonna Taylor or Ahmad Arbery – are acts of racism and must stop.
In the wake of racial divide, I am reminded of the importance of our work, so much of which serves to unify, build bridges and expand and strengthen social safety nets. While we call for an end to violence, looting and all other behavior counterproductive to the advancement of the systemic reforms that are urgently needed, we stand by the rights of citizens to peacefully protest. Despite the fears many of us share, this is a time for us to stand together so that the missions of the organizations we serve continue to combat racism and promote equity, diversity and inclusion.
On behalf of the Averill team, we salute you and your organization for the many ways you contribute to a more equitable and empathetic society, and we stand ready to work with you through these challenging times.
Averill Fundraising Solutions stands with you through these challenging times, and is available to talk with you about the thoughts outlined in this memo, YOUR thoughts, and all your advancement needs. Email us at info@averillsolutions.com or call us at 888-321-1810.
From the desk of:
Robert C. Happy, Jr. – President, Averill Fundraising Solutions
Bob Happy has more than 35 years of experience providing expert leadership and direction to clients across the not-for-profit sector. During his career, Bob has served more than 2,000 clients and has guided them to raise more than $3,500,000,000.
