To say our resiliency has been tested over the past few months is an understatement. Yet here we are, hearts broken again, for our community and our country.
The events of the past few weeks have shined a glaring light on the extreme racial and social injustices that are pervasive. What we are seeing is not new. But the videos, images, and stories of what happened most recently to George Floyd has created a national (and international) movement to stand up, and stand together to create profound, systemic changes we so desperately need. Martin Luther King’s words echo in our minds and are important for us to ingrain into our souls, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
We at Walden stand together as one community who believe that hate and bigotry have no home here or in our country.
We have and will always be a company for ALL.
We will continue to stand up and stand together, to be a leader who does not shy away from doing and saying what’s right. We will continue to be a place where inclusivity and equality for ALL are at our very core so that EVERYONE has access to the care they need and deserve.
But it is not enough for this moment. We more need action now.
We are committed to listening and making changes. Some things will take longer to implement, and some will happen more quickly. Below is our promise in the short-term:
- We will hold internal Town Meetings throughout June dedicated to this topic. These will be more of an open forum where we want to hear what you think, what we can do together better to ensure every individual who works for us, is cared for by us, and who partners with us experiences equality, a welcoming and trusted environment.
- We will be hosting grand rounds and diversity training.
- We are making a corporate donation to a cause that supports fighting racial injustice.
What action means to each of us may be different, and that’s what makes our community so special. We have strong voices, able hands, and open hearts. I urge each of you to look inside and think about your commitment to changing the trajectory for the future.
We will strive even more to be part of the change that will have every person feeling safe, heard, welcome, and acknowledged for their goodness. Where people have access to the care they need and deserve. Where color, gender, and economics are not barriers to opportunity, health, and safety.
As Maya Angelou said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better”.
This is just the beginning for us here at Walden. We will have more to say, and we certainly have more to do.
And that we will do. Please stay safe and take care of each other.
