February 1, 2024
At the January 2024 Town Hall we previewed the video below. We hope that you will watch it and consider its message.
While often Black history month is a time to recognize the great accomplishments and contributions of Black Americans to this country, this year we felt it important to give humanity to the victims of racism, discrimination, and violence.
We chose to spotlight the life of George Floyd, prior to our national introduction to him, because too often issues of race in America boil down to our inability to see ourselves in others, though we have more in common than not.
By highlighting George as a loving father, brother, uncle, and valuable member of the community, we hope to inspire each of you to value not only the lives of the famous and gifted, but to truly treasure the life of all humankind.
Our work here in diversity, equity and inclusion, is yes, about embracing our differences, creating access, and lifting unheard voices; while also recognizing our unified purpose as a team. This year for black history month we challenge you to embrace the idea of the human library. Each person as expert on their own experience. To move out of your comfort zone and find someone who doesn’t look like you or even think like you. Ask a question. Sit. Listen and learn.
At this time, our team would like to take a moment to acknowledge the recent loss of our dear co-worker and friend Roberto Gonzalez who lost his life to violence here in the Bay area. Roberto was a cool cat, a consummate professional, who was well liked and a true joy to be around. A Husband, a Father, a family man. His untimely passing is a present reminder of the violence that unfortunately surrounds us today.
We ask that you please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. In addition, please keep the family of Wilbert Howard in your thoughts and prayers.