San Jose, CA - Dear LBAN Family,
We are saddened, frustrated, and overwhelmed by the tragic killing of George Perry Floyd. Silence is not an option. More so than ever, we must dial-up empathy and action.
Perhaps most disconcerting is that this is not the first time that we have had to mourn such a tragedy. And yet, the stories that receive national coverage represent only a small sliver of the day-in, day-out struggles of disparity that people of color face. LBAN joins those who through action are rallying against institutional racism and social injustice.
While our primary focus is in supporting Latino and Latina entrepreneurs, that focus is rooted in the recognition of the historical disparities, discrimination and the associated imbalance of power and resources that permeate through our country. Through the advancement of our purpose, mission and goal we continue to champion inclusive economics. Communities of color are driving the growth of our American economy and contributing toward the fabric of our American society. The murders of George Perry Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Philando Castile, Eric Garner--and too many more--remind us how far we must go for those voices to be represented, protected and remembered.
We join arm in arm with African Americans who share similar struggles of social injustice. It is incumbent upon us to take a unified stand against racism and advance equality, justice and dignity.
LBAN stands in solidarity with George Perry Floyd’s family and with all those who are acting for justice. Additionally, we stand in solidarity with communities who demand progressive change due to failures in our criminal justice system. Our efforts, whether within the LBAN community and/or our private lives, are most purposeful when equity is accessible for all. We grieve the passing of yet another victim to social injustice, and we strengthen our resolve in advancing meaningful and enduring change.
In solidarity,
Victor Arias, Jr., Chairman
Mark L. Madrid, CEO
LBAN Board of Directors and Team
