As we observe and honor this often-forgotten moment in history, President, Phyllis Hartman shares this letter to HDG employees and colleagues:
While racism in the U.S. has been the elephant in the room for centuries, the pandemic has exposed the suffering of our Black Americans. people of color, and immigrant communities like nothing has before. The loss and pain experienced in our country have left communities, institutions, and even our democracy tested. Our thoughts are with all of those impacted as well as their families and friends.
As citizens, this is not a time to be quiet. It is a time to reexamine our views, share our thoughts, seek to understand, solidify our beliefs, and stand together for what is right, compassionate, and just.
We stand strong as a nation when we embrace our diversity and come together to share our culture, creativity, and experience. To our colleagues in the Black community — we see you. You matter, your lives matter, and you are valued. To those of you who have come from another land and have chosen this country to be your home, thank you for all that you bring to our nation and communities.
The beauty of this country lies in the diversity of its people.
-Phyllis Hartman