Standing Together Against Racism
George Floyd died on what should have been a relatively ordinary day, on a day he should have returned safely to his home and family.
Tragedies like these are far too common, where people in our communities – in particular those who are Black or Indigenous - senselessly lose their lives.
Racism greatly diminishes what we’re all capable of together. Every one of us is made weaker when we tolerate it, ignore it, and don’t speak up about it. For those watching the protests unfold, you may feel that they are far removed from your own life. They’re not. If you haven’t personally felt the effects of discrimination in your own life, you know someone who has.
There is no “they” in addressing racism. “They” need to do something about this. “They” need to figure out a solution.
We need to find solutions, together. We should all be able to go to the corner store or go about our everyday activities without fear. We should all be able to thrive in our personal and professional lives.
I share the deep sadness and outrage that is being expressed by many and I hope that peaceful action and protest will prevail so we can channel our emotions and energy into exposing and challenging racism, prejudice and bigotry wherever it exists.
Making change happen will take action – from everyone. We need to look for ways we can be more intentionally inclusive in our life and in your work. We need to listen carefully to those whose lives are different from our own.
We are capable of great things, but only when we stand together.
Victor
Consultant /Business Analyst/ Scrum Master/ Project Manager
4 年Sir I'm a small employee of your bank I did master in Industrial engineering from University of Windsor but still I'm at entery level fsr.i was working for your bank during pandemic at the same time my sister passed away and my health detrioted.covid 19 added extra stress on me so I came back India to take care of my parlysed mother and get my self treated.but from day one because I'm a brown and Muslim I was threatened for the job.now there is no flight for Canada and I'm getting ultimatum to come back.I'm also trying but there is no flight. I even didn't got my breavermemt leave from the bank.any how sir at least save my job.I'm the only bread earning member at my home.racism is of many type.
Retired from the Government of Alberta (2014)
4 年Refreshing commentary! Like the "we" focus and ownership as we seek healing, growth and moving forward!
Fit and fabulous with SuzyMari
4 年Knowledge is key to SUCCESS, UNDERSTANDING and EMPATHY: I came across these videos and I thought it would be helpful to share. So for those who are struggling to understand or see the relevance to why we are fighting inequality , why we can't move forward and why some may feel we "cause the injustice and Systemic Racism we, as minorities are constantly facing" Here are some clarity: https://www.raceforward.org/videos/systemic-racism https://safeyoutube.net/w/0O7I Suzy Owner and CEO, SuzyMari Fitness
Guide
4 年Victor. Unfortunately your words need to be backed up with concrete action. Change within an organization starts at the top. A quick review of the current Board of Directors of CIBC (15 members) reveals 14 members who I believe would identify as white and only 1 who would identify as black or person of colour. Furthermore, that individual is based in the US. So if you want to bring about systemic change, you need look no further than your Board. Start there.?
Director
4 年@Vp