Statement of Solidarity: Black Lives Matter

A picture of "Black Lives Matter" painted on 16th Street NW, in Washington D.C., the street leading to the White House

Black Lives Matter.  

George Floyd’s life mattered. 

Our hearts and sincere condolences are with the family of George Floyd, and the families of Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. These three names are only the most recent and most visible of the many who have been torn from Black families in this country. 

To the nation, we raise our voice alongside those calling to dismantle structural racism and white supremacy. Black and brown families continue to bear the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic— only the most recent blow to health and economic equality. We stand in solidarity with those protesting for racial justice across the American landscape, and refuse to be distracted by a small contingent attempting to divert attention from the importance of this historic moment. We know the voices of peace in our communities are stronger, more resolute, and will prevail. 

To the District of Columbia, we remain inspired by the multitude—the thousands of voices, joining together in our nation’s capital to demand justice. Our streets are wide enough, our city resilient enough, to provide safe harbor for protest that is passionate, peaceful and profoundly impactful. 

For forty years the Local Initiatives Support Corporation has been committed to doing what we can to bend the arc of justice to lift up neighborhoods across the District, from Bellevue to Brightwood, from Anacostia to Adams Morgan, from Parkside to Petworth. We have been rooted in the belief that neighborhood leaders and organizations best understand the change needed in our communities. The District of Columbia is and has always been one of the Blackest cities in one of most diverse regions in the nation. Diversity is our strength, and shared prosperity is our challenge.  We are committed to going further.

We commit to radical healing by examining our underlying assumptions to determine where we perpetuate bias and engage in difficult conversations with our partners to learn how we can better advance this work. 

We commit to building an economic future where all can thrive and ownership is equitably distributed. 

We commit to pursuing a city where Black Lives Matter - economically, socially and politically.  

Black Lives Matter 

In solidarity,

Ramon Jacobson, Executive Director
Adam Kent, Deputy Director
Victoria Melendez, Program Officer
Bryan Franklin, Program Officer