NBRC Executive Director’s Statement to Board of Directors – June 3rd, 2020
It’s important to acknowledge that our community, and our country, are in turmoil right now. We’ve all seen the news around the protests and calls for action centered on police brutality. Many in our community, especially our Black and African American community members, are experiencing extreme forms of trauma on a repeated basis. Many people are mentally and spiritually exhausted and justifiably very angry.
NBRC has been, and continues to be, committed to cultural competency. As such, we value diversity and equity and strongly condemn any form of racism or discrimination. Our hearts go out to all those in pain during this extremely challenging time. We stand in solidarity with those standing for justice.
I spoke with a very smart, courageous member of our staff yesterday. She reminded me that “when things get messy” it’s especially important for leaders to speak. She also reminded me of an important quote from Martin Luther King, Jr. “Our lives begin to end when we become silent about things that matter.”
I know that my words today will not solve anything but NBRC will not be silent.
Sincerely,
Gabriel Rogin, Executive Director
