All of us at MAPS were outraged as we witnessed George Floyd’s senseless murder on television at the hands of police. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones as we join the millions of people across the country standing up to demand the change we need at the local and national levels to end discrimination and racism.

We hope that as a country we can honor George Floyd’s life by staying focused on the long road ahead. We must demand the lasting social change needed to end racism at all levels, so that equity, justice, and opportunity can prevail for all. Addressing systemic racism and institutional oppression in our country must be a priority for all.

At the individual level, racism is learned and can be unlearned. It is rooted in fear and ignorance, and it is up to all of us to stand up against it whenever and wherever we witness it – in our social groups, our workplaces, and our communities.

At MAPS, we know that our strength comes from our diversity. It allows us to see the world through many different perspectives and promotes empathy and understanding.

Similarly, it is in our diversity as a country that our beauty and strength reside.

Knowing and acknowledging our past helps us understand our present, and prepare our future.

Let’s keep working together to make sure we build a country of equity, respect, and justice for all.