Earlier this week, the nation came to a standstill awaiting the verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial. His resulting conviction for the murder of George Floyd was a watershed moment in what has been a tense and divisive year for our country. And, though the trial has ended, the work towards healing and reform are just beginning.
At New Friends New Life, we know that the work we do every day to restore and empower survivors exists against a crippling social backdrop of hatred, discrimination, and socioeconomic inequality. We cannot separate the acute trauma from the chronic trauma that has existed for generations. In order to break through these barriers, we must acknowledge, support, and hold space for those who are directly affected by these ills – beginning with our staff (40% of whom are women of color), the members we serve (50% women of color) and our diverse Board of Directors.
We stand with those in the pursuit of liberty and justice and for the basic human rights each of us deserves.
We stand with those who believe in the inherent decency of our neighbors and in the hope that good will outshine evil.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to the collective action that will help bring healing and restoration to this land of ours.
