CORE Group stands in solidarity with the Black community and all those fighting fiercely against racial injustice in communities across the United States and around the world. Like many of you, we are deeply saddened and outraged by recent tragedies in the United States including the senseless murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and many others. These acts of injustice have gone on for far too long and it is time that we take action in our organizations, communities and beyond.
We stand in solidarity with our CORE Group team, CORE Group Board of Directors, CORE Group members, and communities across the country and around in the world in raising our collective voices against the ongoing civil and human rights violations of police brutality in this country, fueled by structural racism. Black Americans are three times as likely to be killed by the police than White Americans and research demonstrates that the continued killings of unarmed Black Americans are harming mental health in those communities, as well as having negative economic impacts. Unconscious bias and micro-aggressions are also inherent in our daily interactions, and it is past time that addressing these issues is institutionalized as part of a culture of learning and action within and across organizations.
During this pivotal moment, we cannot ignore the ways that systemic racism has worsened health inequities for Black communities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the United States, Black Americans are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 with research demonstrating that Black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at more than double the rate of other racial groups in the country. Disparities based on race, class, gender, ability, and more will continue unless we all stand together to demand justice and dismantle the systems perpetuating inequity and hold to account, those who benefit from these systems.
CORE Group, as an organization committed to reducing inequity and advancing the health and well-being of underserved populations around the world, will do everything in our power to foster systemic change, advocate for justice, and address the health needs of vulnerable populations. Our internal policies are reflective of diversity and inclusion, yet we are re-examining how we can continue to actively listen, learn, and improve our response. Through collaborative action, advocacy, and research we will work with our partners in the global health community at local and country levels to promote social justice and build a more equitable society. Join us in solidarity, as racism is a global issue that needs action now to end violence, eliminate inequalities, and ensure the mental health and well-being of Black communities as a way of strengthening all of us. The time for action is now and look for upcoming conversations on racism, effecting change, and elevating communities. Please join CORE Group in this vital movement for change.
Lisa Hilmi, Executive Director
CORE Group Staff
CORE Group Board of Directors