For all the many (and I do mean many) folks who've told me there's no such thing as systemic racism or White privilege, I'd like for you to consider some things. Have you ever thought about who specifically developed the laws of our country? Whose perspectives and experiences were considered? How about when you've gone for a job interview or into a store or to look at an apartment? Have you thought before walking into a space, "I wonder if this person will look at me funny or assume negative things about me simply because of my skin color"? If you've never once wondered that, then you likely have benefitted from the systems that have been set in place long, long ago and have, whether intended or not, aided certain folks and hindered others.

I know it doesn’t feel good to hear or read things like this. It's ugly. It's painful. It frankly sucks. So if hearing these things makes you uncomfortable, I invite you to open the window of your heart to seek out others who have had experiences very different from your own and listen, observe, ask more questions, empathize. Only then can you begin to understand how our American constructs have provided opportunities for some to advance, build wealth and live in comfort, while others, no matter how hard they work and no matter how successful they become STILL have to battle those thoughts and wonder who's hating on them, simply because of skin color.

While history, AMERICAN history, not just Black History (because they are one and the same) is difficult to stomach at times, we are in a different time, where people are listening.

They are curious. Organizations want to make a positive difference in the lives of their employees and communities. This is progress. Change is happening! This is great news and I invite YOU to continue being curious, respectfully challenging others who have opposing views and educate others who are uninformed on things you've discovered and learned. Every little thing you do makes a difference and is appreciated. You'll often get it wrong, but at least you're trying and I, for one, applaud you for that.

-Cynthia Rodriguez, Director of Client Services