09 Jun A statement from Inter-Faith Housing Alliance

The past few weeks have been a time of reflection for some, awakening for others, and reckoning for many more. As we mourn for the countless unwarranted deaths of African-American citizens and grieve for the American ideals that we recognize as unachieved, we also pray – and take action – for a better future for us all.

The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery will not be in vain. Through their stories, we can recommit to learning about and more importantly to changing the systemic racism and injustice that have impacted Black communities in Montgomery County and throughout our country.

As Inter-Faith Housing Alliance works toward ending homelessness and food insecurity, we must also promote equity, inclusion, and belonging. Our board and staff recognize the importance of dismantling racism, bias, and discrimination and we are committed to doing more.

The first step in creating change is education, so that we can understand the complexities of privilege and racism, as well as what we can do to create change. Black Lives Matter has compiled a list of resources here. Check on our website in the coming days and weeks for additional links to books and other  resources.  Not sure how you can help? Here are 25 Ways to Be in the Struggle Beyond the Streets.

The second step is dialogue. We invite you to reach out to share your ideas and concerns as you work with us to address racism within ourselves and our community. We are here for you and our entire community as we make sense of and engage in this difficult time.