Again, and again, and again.
The killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and far too many people of color have put yet another grim spotlight on the racial and economic inequalities that continue to define life in America. This ugly tradition can’t possibly be reversed as long as any one of us continues to sit down.
Hillside stands. We stand with black and brown people in a shared sense of urgency. We stand against racism and discrimination, and against the violence that comes with them.
We know that Black Lives Matter. The children and families we serve are often among the most vulnerable in the communities we all call home. We see every day how they are disproportionately disadvantaged by systemic inequities, leading to deep-seated trauma that is frequently passed on to their children and grandchildren. It’s a cycle that hinders potential, and cuts meaningful lives short.
The people of Hillside refuse to accept this status quo. Black and brown children and families deserve a better future. We remain dedicated to providing pathways of meaningful change for more than 13,000 children and families every year, while deepening our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion among our staff. We are committed to listening and engaging in action. Our communities deserve our very best effort. We will not let them down.
Maria Cristalli
President and CEO
Hillside Family of Agencies