Opposing racism requires more than words: we must stop, listen, learn, and act

To Our Colleagues, Friends, and Members of Our Communities:

The past week has been full of pain, anguish, anger, and sadness as we’ve witnessed again the corrosive consequences of racism in our society. But the reality is the scourge of racism, both individual and systemic, has plagued countries for centuries and continues today. The deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor are shocking and horrifying, but follow a long, sad line of senseless and inexcusable deaths for black people in America. Other non-lethal aggressions, like the one inflicted on Christian Cooper in Central Park, are terrible reminders that racism is a daily experience for black people in our the U.S. and elsewhere.

Altman Vilandrie & Company and Solon Management Consulting resolutely condemn racism and prejudice in all forms and we stand with the ongoing struggle for true justice and equality. Many of our colleagues, partners, clients, and other community members are hurting, for themselves, for family and friends, or for the nation as a whole, and it is critical for us all to stop, listen, and learn.

But profound change requires more than words. We are committed to supporting our colleagues by building a culture that fully affirms people of color and all underrepresented communities.  We are continuously scrutinizing our own practices to improve. We are providing our colleagues resources and support in their journeys confronting racism in their communities. And we are committed to continuing this hard work after the headlines fade.

We are grateful for and inspired by our colleagues, who lead many of our internal initiatives, treat members of their communities with empathy, and passionately fight against all forms of racism and inequality.  Their energy and integrity give us great hope for our collective future.