Letter to Staff

Dear IFAC Colleagues –

George Floyd’s life was taken a week ago today, and for the last six days we have seen powerful protests and reactions in cities all across the U.S. and elsewhere around the world. We all bring our own perspectives, values and experiences to how we interpret this tragedy, as well as the recent deaths of Breonna Taylor & Ahmaud Arbery and racial transgressions against Christian Cooper last week in Central Park.

These injustices are alarming, frightening and wholly unacceptable. Society – and each of us as individuals – needs to actively acknowledge and tackle racism, bias, injustice, and inequality in all its forms, until this is no longer just a sound bite but part of the fabric of our collective culture and social contract.

This is an enormous, complex, and important issue. It is well beyond the capability of any one person, organization or nation to solve. But I do believe we all have an obligation as individuals to stand up and speak out for our values, and to treat each other with the dignity, respect and equality that every human being deserves. That is the way we can make a difference.

I know these tragedies have affected many of you deeply, and I ask that we all support one another as we manage through these extremely challenging times. You have my support, and that of the entire management team. Now more than ever, please reach out, communicate, and know that we are here for each other.

Kevin