In response to the violence against Black and African American people and the wave of protests nationwide, we published perspectives of Black community members on our website. Here are just some of those voices. Read more on our website.
Do you see me in this American crisis?
Dan Kihanya, MBA 96 CMO, Wizely & Host, Founders Unfound
Dan Kihanya, MBA 96 CMO, Wizely & Host, Founders Unfound
“As an African American, I’ve learned that my blessings don’t come without cost. While frustrating and at times exhausting, I’ve accepted that there is a price. The extra eyes on me in the store. The conspicuousness of being the only person of color in the room. Shouldering the burden of ‘representing’ others who look like me, knowing that one miscue could spoil things for those who come next.”
It is not OK!
Binundu Isaiah Samuel, EMBA 20 Class President/Director of Digital Operations, GE
Binundu Isaiah Samuel, EMBA 20 Class President/Director of Digital Operations, GE
“Are you going to be on the side of justice, equality, and fairness for all? Or are you going to pretend that there are no problems? The time for pretense is over! The mask has been lifted, and the scars are exposed for all to see….The world is in pain. It is not ok!…We must heed the lessons of our past and present to ensure our future will be better.”
Why I’m passionate about social justice and equity
Erika Walker Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Programs
Erika Walker Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Programs
“We cannot be okay with ‘I don’t see color,’ ‘I’m not a bad person,’ or ‘I’m not racist.’ If you don’t see color, you are erasing my existence. The existence of my family tree that has its roots in slavery. The existence of this country….It is not enough to not be racist. You must be anti-racist. Frankly, it is not enough to be an ally. You need to get involved.”
I am a VC but still a Black man in America
Lo Toney, MBA 97 Founding Managing Partner, Plexo Capital
Lo Toney, MBA 97 Founding Managing Partner, Plexo Capital
“As a leader in a corporation, it is not enough to simply provide a statement of support—it is now time to identify and provide employment opportunities to the countless number of qualified Black candidates. As a member of the board of a publicly traded company…it is now time to…bring in Black board directors [who] provide new perspectives. As an allocator of capital, it is not enough to invest in one company led by a ‘diverse’ entrepreneur…it is now time to expand your network to find high-potential Black entrepreneurs…and invest in them.” (Read Toney’s full essay.)
