We at the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation, are deeply heartbroken and angered over the senseless death of Mr. George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis, Minnesota police officer, which has sparked nationwide outrage. We also grieve for the recent deaths of other unarmed black men and women — Breonna Taylor, Tamir Rice, Freddie Gray, Eric Garner and so many others — in police custody. And it is clear to us that systemic racism and discrimination are key to understanding the nature of the problem, and the solution.
These events and the continued cries for justice and reform from millions through protests, prayer and other means this past week shine a spotlight on the historical and institutional racial and economic inequities that are perpetuated by policies, practices and cultural norms. We must add our voice to the growing chorus of people who are calling for change.
As your community foundation, we are committed to doing our part to listen to and work with community partners to help foster structural change. We pledge to do this so that the color of our skin or identity does not determine life outcomes and every person is equally valued.
We can achieve this vision if we all, together, work in solidarity to address the entrenched institutional practices that have led us to this moment.
The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation’s Board of Directors and Staff stand in unity with you.
Tony Martinez Jr.
President and CEO
Donna T. Myers
Chair of the Board of Directors
OP-RF Community Foundation
