Juneteenth at Wallace
Dear Wallace Friends and Supporters,
Our communities are facing unparalleled, difficult times in this current climate. Systematic racism and inequities targeting Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities has repressed our society and damaged our country. Due to recent events centered around George Floyd’s murder, many people around the world have stepped forward as change agents to push for an equitable future. Wallace pledges to learn how to be an active part of the solution toward advancing social justice, inclusion, and equality.
As an organization we recognize that while we do valuable work, we still have work ahead of us.
Hiring and recruiting practices and assuring that this is a place where African American’s feel welcome, included, and comfortable accessing care and where an employee feels like they can grow and be part of a thriving team – is an area of improvement for Wallace.
Conversations with our board, community, and patients have revealed that while Latino’s feel welcome and comfortable accessing care at Wallace, African American’s would feel more inclined to seek our services if they encountered more African American staff. To that end we know that we have work to do.
The work of taking a serious look in the mirror at who we represent, and making a commitment toward positive change will open up opportunities for those interested to participate in this work. We will be launching these efforts in the near future and we will be inviting staff and community members to participate.
Today is June 19th, recognized in the African American community as Juneteenth; also known as Emancipation day or Freedom day, the day that marks the end of slavery in the United States. As a holiday with deep cultural significance, our Board of Directors will discuss the observation of Juneteenth as a Wallace holiday for next year, 2021. Moving to recognize Juneteenth annually is an important step Wallace is taking as an organization to help the country live up to the ideal of moving forward.
It’s past time. A just, safe and healthy future for everyone needs to start now. We all have work to do.
This Juneteenth we remember the injustices of the past, and condemn the injustices of today. We reflect with humility and open hearts our readiness for change.
Warmly,
Lisa Cline and the Wallace Sr. Leadership Team
