We need to be better than this

In the midst of grappling with the ongoing health and economic crises, another crisis presents itself — one that is far more insidious. But instead of our health or jobs being threatened, this time, it’s our humanity. And similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, this is not just a problem in the United States… racial discrimination and oppression are issues that have deep roots in communities all around the world. But whether you face racial inequity, are treated as ‘less than’ because of your position in life, or face other forms of discrimination, the fundamental issue is the same: All people are not treated equally.

George Floyd’s tragic death is one of many examples of how people in the Black community have faced deep-rooted, systemic racial discrimination and oppression. It’s unconscionable to think that we’ve made so much progress as a society but we are still talking about skin color. I find myself unable to sleep, wondering how we got here and if there are any real solutions.  How do I talk to my daughters about an issue that, I myself, don’t fully comprehend? As a parent, this is not a future I desire for my children.

I remain restless as I reflect back on my own experiences with bias and prejudice. I don’t often share these stories openly because I feel very privileged. I had incredible, supportive parents who came to the U.S. as immigrants to build a better life for their children. I went to good schools and continue to have a fulfilling career. I have had teachers, mentors, friends who have helped and supported me along the way and two amazing, healthy children. Why would I ever have cause to complain? 

But as a woman and as a person of color, I’ve felt the impact of being discriminated against because of my gender, my race, and my religion. I’ve been told with words and actions that I don’t belong or I’m not good enough, harassed for things I cannot control, made to feel less than for decisions I did not make, and treated like an outsider in the only country I’ve ever known. However, my experiences pale in comparison to the fear, harassment, trauma and ongoing brutality that many in our community face on a daily basis. And what I know is this behavior must stop. We need to be better than this. 

Unfortunately, the sad truth is this battle is far from won. We have such a long way to go before all people are treated equally and with the dignity and respect they deserve. In my work, as the leader of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, I fight for a more sustainable world and the advancement of equity and social justice for all. This is a responsibility I take very seriously. I work with our members to not only have the tough conversations that drive change, but to also develop solutions that address systemic issues — issues that none of us can tackle alone. I promise to continue prioritizing these difficult and sometimes uncomfortable conversations to drive tangible progress toward a better future.

This is a critical moment in our lifetimes and each of us has an important role to play. We must listen to what this moment is telling us, engage in courageous conversations, and act with conviction to create the future we want to see and a better world for all of us. Part of what will get us through this challenging time is knowing we are not alone, and that together, we can do more than we could as individuals, as companies or even as a community. Now, we need to act with courage towards that vision of a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone. I’m committed to doing my part to build that world, I hope you’ll join me.