The time for action and courage is now
June 1, 2020
In a world gripped with a pandemic that crosses borders seamlessly and infects indiscriminately, the resulting impact from COVID-19 is anything but equal. The continuing huge divisions in our societies mean that the death rate and economic impact is felt disproportionally among minority groups and the poorest.
Festering divisions in society have been even more evident in the last week following the killing of George Floyd in the US. The video images bring anger, horror, disgust and sadness, yet they are only the most recent and egregious in an all too long list that continues to grow. I cannot fully understand the experience of my black colleagues and others across the globe who endure the daily sting of injustice and threats from racism. I cannot fully appreciate the fear of seeing your loved ones leave each morning for work or school not knowing if they will return home in a world where your skin color results in systemic discrimination and persistent violence.
But I know we cannot remain silent and, along with my colleagues in the US and around the world, we must continue our shared fight against racism and discrimination in all its forms. We need inclusive societies and organizations that celebrate the individual perspectives, experience, insight and ideas all of us bring.
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It is time for each of us to question ourselves and the role we are playing to drive progress. We must call out any behavior that is not acceptable; actively and empathetically support colleagues; listen to and learn from all the voices around us; use the channels in our Firm to address any concerns; and above all else, be unyielding in our unwillingness to accept injustice and racism of any kind in our Firm and in our communities.
We all have to step up, commit to act with courage and work together tirelessly to address the unequal treatment of all in our communities. Today, tomorrow and until this is a different world.
Elliott I. Portnoy
Global Chief Executive Officer