As we share in the sadness, anger and uncertainty that have rocked communities across the United States since the killing of George Floyd — protests of the systemic and racial injustice that have infused and informed the life of our nation — we recognize that we must do more. I must do more." — Habitat for Humanity International CEO, Jonathan Reckford Building with hammers and voicesThroughout Habitat's history, our work has been a vehicle for reconciliation that has broken down barriers between people. We work alongside those willing to partner with us, no matter their background or walk of life, and that will always be true. We will continue to build with our hammers, build connections among community members; and build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. At the same time, we must also do a better job of directly addressing systemic barriers to affordable housing, and we must work to eradicate those barriers. Historic discrimination in U.S. housing policy — particularly discrimination against Black Americans, and including mortgage redlining in Rochester — is one of the chief drivers of racial inequities that still persist today. Organizations like Habitat that work on housing must understand that history, understand that its legacy still affects our neighbors and neighborhoods today, and it must inform our work moving forward. Our CommitmentsIn addition to being a space where people of all races, all faiths and all backgrounds can come together in common cause, we commit to being actively anti-racist and to affirming, through word and action, that Black Lives Matter and that our communities and systems must further this fundamental truth." — Habitat for Humanity International CEO, Jonathan Reckford At the link below you will find further details of Habitat for Humanity's commitments, including steps that are being undertaken now, a great list of actions that you can take with us, and a list of educational materials (to read or watch).
We know we can't do everything on these lists all at once; but as individual staff members, volunteers, and supporters — we can each commit to starting with one. Start with one action today. As a local Habitat affiliate, we are also committing to walking alongside and supporting each other as we undertake this essential work. We will occasionally send bigger updates to everyone (like this one), but if you would like to receive more frequent, step-by-step updates about our advocacy, education, and social justice work, please update your email preferences here. Ana Medina is approaching 15 years of homeownership  Have you ever wondered how Habitat homeowners are doing long after they move in? Ana Medina is approaching 15 years as a Habitat homeowner in Rochester, and she has been a close friend and mentor to Kiomy Rivera, who just moved into her Habitat home last month! Please join us to hear Ana's story on Wednesday, June 24th, starting at 7:00pm. RSVP here to get a reminder and watch the video below for a teaser. New Virtual Gala detailsIn addition to Ana's story on Wednesday, we have updated our website with a full schedule, details, and themes for each night (June 23-26).
Each evening is only 1 or 2 hours, so you can join us every night (without losing your whole night), or pick and choose which parts to attend! Plus, the online auction is open now! Click the button below for more details or to bid on auction items now. |
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