Just when we thought we, as a nation, could catch our breath and think about our next steps on the downside of a global catastrophic event that has set this world on its ear, the lethal cancer of racial injustice erupts. Again.

Racial injustice in America has brokered a progression of suffering over generations within the Black community in ways that can be truly understood only if you are Black. It has been at times blatant and at times subdued, painful and destructive. But when it revisits its legacy of ending human life for no reason other than hate? When we witness right before our own eyes the last breath of a Black man spent only to say “I can’t breathe” as his life is ebbing away and, we do nothing?

It is time for us to understand that we can no longer just look away. This heartbreak, pain and suffering deserves not only to be seen for what it really is, but needs to stop once and for all. Local leaders and officials of all races, creeds, and color must come together to support racial equality for Black Americans, as well as communities across all marginalized identities. Abolishing systemic oppression and protecting and elevating our most vulnerable populations need your anger, your outrage, and, above all else, your action.

We are asking the questions that need to be asked, but we may find the answers are difficult to hear, and maybe to understand. It is imperative that we keep asking questions, keep our ears and our hearts open, and keep seeking truth within both these complicated times and ourselves.

Local Government Academy continues to actively listen and learn so that we can improve and actively diversify our platform, programming, and mentorships. Resources for empowering and enriching communities should not be a privilege, but available and easily accessible to all.

We are proud to see our neighbors standing up for justice, reformation, and each other. To cultivate true change, we will do the same while challenging our friends, partners, and local leaders to join us. Love, listen, and take care of each other.

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” Nelson Mandela, Former President of South Africa

– Local Government Academy