….the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) will continue to sustain and expand the network that is building the capacity, supportive relationships, and leadership necessary to ensure our Movement achieves its dream of an inclusive, multi-racial American democracy. In this critical moment for our democracy, we affirm these commitments to you, and to all people living in the United States.
We affirm that:
- Race matters – although tension, anxiety and discomfort are sometimes a part of conversations about race, we know we must explicitly name race as a factor that still determines how well we do in American society. Not discussing race does not make racism go away. Talking about race as a factor that influences our life outcomes does not drive us apart. Talking about race will keep us focused on solutions that benefit all of us and bring us together We cannot have equity for all without achieving racial equity.
- History matters – We acknowledge that government has a historical legacy of enforcing laws that created racial inequity. This history created the racial disparities that exist in every aspect of American life today. And government has the capacity and obligation to correct this history.
- Inclusion matters – people who are negatively impacted by institutional actions have a right to participate in designing the solutions intended to benefit them. Communities of color that are most negatively impacted by racial inequity should be included in and benefit from all government decisions impacting their lives.
- Leadership matters – Transforming our systems towards greater racial equity requires consistent and courageous leadership. There is a role for elected, appointed and community-based leadership to advance racial equity, as well as the development of emerging leadership.
- Movement matters – Racial inequities have been intentionally created and maintained over an extended period of time. They will not disappear on their own. To advance racial equity, we must organize within government and across other sectors, always putting community at the center. We believe that a racial equity movement must build and expand the engagement of governmental jurisdictions across the country.
- Power matters – Power has often been used to perpetuate inequities. We believe in intentionally examining, considering, negotiating, claiming and exercising power that advances racial equity.
- Learning matters – Our network and this movement is fueled by continuous, intentional learning and feedback.
YOU matter. GARE will continue to support those who are working to ensure that the movement for racial justice continues to grow and thrive. No matter what.
Gordon F. Goodwin
GARE Director