SCOR reopened last Friday carefully and in conjunction with City and State guidance. As we re-open, we are mindful that the pandemic is ongoing and that it will most likely be with us for an extended period. While we grapple with how our health, work and social lives have been and will continue to be impacted, recent events have reminded us that many People of Color in our community continue to deal with the deadly and pervasive impacts of systemic racism. Racism will continue to be embedded in our society and institutions if silence and inaction continue.

As business owners, community partners and Richmonders, we recognize that we need to do more to support the Black community, and all communities of color. We are inspired and encouraged by the peaceful protests and the surge in support for anti-racist education and policies. We have always strived to be a welcoming organization. Now we recognize that being “not racist” is not enough and silence and, especially White Silence, is not acceptable. We support the removal of any and all monuments or symbols that honor or celebrate any aspect of the Confederacy and racism. We have not and will not tolerate racism, sexism, or other forms of discrimination.

We hope that we are all at a turning point and that local, state and federal anti-racist policy will follow quickly. In the meantime, we at SCOR know that we must do our part to educate ourselves, examine our policies and practices, and be better community partners.

Black Lives Matter.

Sincerely,
Mark, Eileen, Bruce, Chris, and The SCOR Team