Oppression for one is oppression for all

"First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me." – Martin Niemöller

This is one of my favorite quotes of all time. And how poignant as we watch the events that have unfolded over the past week, though these issues and feelings have simmered for centuries.

LIVED EQUALITY is at the heart of our mission at the Gay Community Endowment Fund, and we stand in solidarity with – and speak out for – all of those in our community who have been and who remain oppressed and are targeted victims of violence and discrimination. We condemn these acts based merely on the color of one's skin.

We understand marching. We understand protesting. And we fully understand that BLACK LIVES MATTER. For oppression of one, is oppression of all.

We will continue our work toward a community where all of our citizens – regardless of race, color, creed, ability, sexual orientation or identity, or any other factors that have too long divided us – can live safely and fully with true lived equality.

The events that have transpired all over our country drive us with greater passion and commitment to stand for justice and to continue our work with our community partners to make Akron and Summit County a beacon of liberty and justice for all.

I speak on behalf of our executive board as we honor the life of George Floyd and all the other names we have heard over the past week – and especially for all of those who have suffered similar fates but whose names we do not know.

Julie Jones, GCEF Chair

Stephannie Garrett, Vice Chair
Gregory Hail, Treasurer 
Michelle Krocker, Secretary
Phil Montgomery, Immediate Past Chair