We must build a safe, just, and equitable present and future

Black lives matter. Now, more than ever, it’s imperative that we stand together in actions and words. Intolerance, hate, racism, discrimination, violence, have no place in our communities, in our workplaces, or in our country.

The last few weeks have laid bare the reality of racism in the United States. The horrific murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, David McAtee, and too many others whose stories are sadly still coming to light, can create an understandable sense of hopelessness.

We acknowledge that people, particularly in the Black community, are hurting, overwhelmed, exhausted, and scared. 

These traumatic, painful events are not aberrations. Systemic racism and police brutality have gone on far too long. Millions of Americans face mistreatment on account of race every day. 

Here at Empower Work, at the core of our efforts supporting working Americans, we see the daily emotional, economic, and physical tolls of demeaning interactions with a manager or coworker, a biased performance review or layoff, pervasive harmful aggressions, denials of PPE or time off as COVID-19 has unfolded–the list goes on. 

Through our confidential workplace chat line, we create space by listening deeply, acknowledging, and exploring paths forward for workers at critical moments. We’ve seen the positive impact that having timely, accessible support can have on emotional and economic wellbeing–and how it can be a step towards dismantling harmful, oppressive practices and structures.

Though the last few weeks have strained our hope, we still believe that a better, more just, more equitable future, where workplaces truly support people to thrive, is possible. Part of what inspires us is the strength, power, energy, and action we see in our community and conversations every day.

Our work is far from over. In many ways, as the last few months have shown it’s only just beginning.

Our team, peer counselors, and community are committed to reimagining workplaces that support a path to opportunity that has too long been promised in America, but unfulfilled. It’s going to take collective, persistent action. We’re ready to push forward. To that end, we want to share resources and actions that you can use in your workplace and beyond.

Support Workers Right Now

• Need support? Connect with a trained peer counselor via text. Free, immediate, confidential support: 510-674-1414.

• Managing a team? Unsure how to acknowledge, support, and talk with your team? The Management Center’s “How to Manage When Things Are Not Okay (and Haven’t Been for Centuries)” offers concrete ideas and actions.

Actions and Resources for the Workplace and Beyond

• The Movement for Black Lives

• Anti-Racism Resources for White People

• Social Change: Everyone Has a Role to Play

In solidarity,

The Empower Work Team

This statement was created in collaboration with staff, board, advisors, and volunteers.