An open letter to our community
| Dear Friends, Our hearts are heavy as we witness yet another chapter in our nation’s tragic history of violence and racism. The senseless murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor in recent weeks have left us angry, shocked and saddened. The majority of IN’s client base—our neighbors—are people of color who fled systemic oppression and conflict. So, it is particularly alarming and triggering to see similar scenarios playing out here in America. As an organization dedicated to creating a community that welcomes and supports all neighbors, we must act to condemn prejudice, racism and violence in all its forms. Change starts with each of us. As Great Neighbors, we can: •Make people in our community feel safe, wanted, respected, and welcomed. •LISTEN—without assumption—to the experiences of those whose backgrounds are unlike our own. •Examine the systems that we are part of, and work to promote inclusion that honors justice for all of humanity. •Have difficult conversations that educate those trapped in “a white bubble where there’s no trouble.” We can all be better—better people, better advocates, better neighbors. See below for resources for talking to children about racism (good resources for adults as well). I can also strive to be a better leader in this community. Here are some actions IN will be taking as an organization: •We stand in solidarity with black people everywhere who are fighting for their right to live lives free from oppression and unharmed by acts of violence. •We stand against police brutality in all forms. •We stand against a criminal justice system that disproportionately targets Black Americans. •We stand against the institutionalized disenfranchisement of black and brown communities whose voices are silenced. •We will not tolerate racist words or actions—we realize silence equals violence. •We pledge to support black-owned businesses in our community. •We will continue to advocate on behalf of those whose skin color has unfairly limited their opportunities. To our black neighbors: we hear you, we share your anger and disgust, and we stand with you in steadfast solidarity. Sincerely,  Kari Miller Founder & Executive Director Resources: AAP: Talking to Children about Racial Bias https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/Talking-to-Children-About-Racial-Bias.aspx The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s Talking About Race Portal https://nmaahc.si.edu/learn/talking-about-race Child Mind Institute on Processing Violent News Events https://childmind.org/article/racism-and-violence-how-to-help-kids-handle-the-news/ Books to Read with Your Children https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/books-with-characters-of-co Books to Read with Your Children https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/books-with-characters-of-co Tips for Talking about Racism at Every Age How to talk to children about racism Anti-racism for kids 101: Starting to talk about race |
