We stand with the Black community
Our steps toward actionable change.
Back on My Feet stands squarely against systemic racism and social injustice.
We stand with a nation grieving over the senseless losses of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and so many others. We stand with all people of color, and particularly the Black community – including our many members, alumni, staff, volunteers and supporters – who are suffering and grieving as a result of these tragedies and the reality of long-standing, systemic racism in this country.
We stand — but we don't stand still.
As an organization that asks our members to tackle immense challenges with courage and accountability, we must do the same. We have been reflecting on what tangible actions we can take to be better allies of the Black community and contribute more meaningfully to racial justice. We have always been committed to building communities that dismantle stereotypes and prejudices and working toward a more equitable world.
We know we can do more.
Today, we recommit to helping shape a better tomorrow, and we pledge to do more. Our next steps are straightforward.
- We will achieve greater diversity among our leadership team including our national board and staff, driven by proactive strategies to recruit Black, Indigenous and People of Color.
- We will increase education for our staff, volunteers and supporters about the impact of racial injustice and the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion.
- We will create opportunities for open and honest conversation about race, implicit bias and inequality affecting our colleagues, members, volunteers and communities.
- We will internally audit organizational policies, procedures and practices to ensure fairness and equity.
- We will take action on what we learn.
We recognize that these steps are just the beginning. We are forming an internal task force to focus on these issues and expand on them. While these are big tasks that will take time and effort, we are up for the challenge. As we outrun homelessness, as we break barriers and reduce stigma, we will do it with a sincere awareness that we must continue to do more and do so together.
Today and every day, we stand with the Black community. We stand with our members, alumni, volunteers and staff. We stand together – and we most certainly do not stand still.