art by Megan Harper Nichols

On May 29, 2020 we made a statement focused on the need for greater transparency and accountability from public officials towards anti-racism. The Chauvin verdict and the release of body cam footage from Columbus Police of the shooting of Ma’Khia Bryant is the beginning of accountability and transparency, but justice and peace have not been served.

All these acts of violence against communities of color are a reflection of how broken our criminal justice system is and how systemic racism is deeply embedded. It requires dismantling and transformation, and we clearly have a lot more work to do.

Today, Kalamazoo Community Foundation recommits to this work and invites you to take action with us through various community partners organized efforts toward our shared humanity, greater inclusion and equity for all.