As 2016 draws to an end, I'm reflecting upon the work that we have done toward our mission of eliminating bias, bigotry, and racism. In the 89 years since The Diversity Center was founded, we have seen great movements toward equality. Sadly, every day when I read the headlines or watch the news, it is clear to me that our work is far from finished.
For many of us, this was a difficult year, wrought with tension and division. In 2016, we've had mass shootings at LGBT clubs and violent murders of transgender people. Hate crimes against Muslims are the highest they've been since 9/11. Positive advances in race relations are quickly being lost through senseless murders and fear, and women's rights are under serious threat. Outward expressions of racism, religious intolerance, and bigotry are on the rise and the need for The Diversity Center is more apparent than ever.
As I think about the responsibility that we have to our students and to our future, I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes:
"Racism is still with us, but it is up to us to prepare our children for what they have to meet, and hopefully, we shall overcome."
-Rosa Parks
It is in this spirit that The Diversity Center's School & Youth programs work to empower students to become allies, advocates, and agents of change in their schools and communities. We work with students throughout Northeast Ohio and give them the tools they need to create communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued.
Please join us and support our mission of eliminating bias, bigotry, and racism by making an investment in our work. Your generous contributions will help us continue providing quality programming to thousands of students throughout Northeast Ohio.
