VOACC's Statement of Commitment to Justice

Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas stands with communities, organizations and individuals across the country and the world in grieving not only for George Floyd, but for the many others that have fallen before him due to racial injustice. In this video message, I share our grief and outrage; our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion; and a prayer for peace and restoration in the wake of the unspeakable death of George Floyd.

As an organization, we strongly condemn racism and bigotry in all of its forms. We deplore violence and unfairness that has taken so many lives of people of color. Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas has a long-standing history of commitment to racial justice. We are an agency that works to support the most vulnerable in our communities. Acknowledging that a significant percentage of our staff and the populations we serve are Black, fighting against racial injustice is and must be an integral part of how we think and approach our work. The people we serve experience systemic prejudice and marginalization in all aspects of their lives, creating roadblocks that those who are more privileged can’t even imagine. We realize and are dedicated to furthering our commitment to strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion and rooting out wherever systemic racism exists.

All forms of injustice have got to stop. We want a call to action, but that call must first come from within ourselves. We must step up as individuals, as an organization and as a church without walls to influence change within ourselves, our colleagues and the communities where we serve. It's not acceptable to have racial inequity or injustice. We must speak up against injustice and create a peaceful and safe environment where no one should ever have to fear for their life or their liberties.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

It is important that our community knows that we do not condone racism or violence and that we will continue to work towards transforming grief and outrage into action to provide solutions in the communities where we serve. We want you to know that we see you, support you and stand with you.

Many Blessings,

Russell K. Snyder
President & CEO