We believe every child should have the opportunity to succeed in school and in life, cradle to career, regardless of race, ethnicity, zip code or circumstance.

We know racism is the root of many problems across our country. Recent events, particularly the killings of black men and women including Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, again bring to light the structural racism inherent in our society.

StriveTogether mourns the loss of these precious lives, and we extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones and communities. As an organization that is deeply embedded in the communities we partner with, we feel the pain racial injustices have caused throughout the country.

We are also working to instill equity further into our operations and across our network of nearly 70 communities. This includes:

• increasing support to communities working to close disparity gaps and improve outcomes for black and brown children.
• partnering with other national organizations to influence policy that addresses structural racism.
• continuing to dedicate time for our team to come together in affinity groups to process racial injustice and heal.

We know our work is important, and we know we cannot do it alone. In order for our youth to have a chance at an equitable future, we must work together holding ourselves and our communities accountable. We must listen and be led by those most impacted by racist structures, working with communities of color to build more equitable systems. We must have the courage to trust the data that exposes the systemic racism in our country.

We must do better. And we cannot remain silent.

Join us. Learn more about our work for racial and ethnic equity.