“We cannot keep silent…It’s not right. It’s never been right. And it’s time to do right.”

Great Falls Image Courtesy of CHristopher James

MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2020

STATEMENT FROM HEDRICK BELIN, POTOMAC CONSERVANCY PRESIDENT

In the aftermath of the recent killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Monika Diamond, and countless unarmed Black people throughout the history of our nation, and the racist attack on Christian Cooper in Central Park – we cannot keep silent about the need for Potomac Conservancy and environmental groups to do more in the fight for justice.

Potomac Conservancy condemns the horrific violence, targeting, and terrorizing of the Black community throughout generations.

It’s not right. It’s never been right. And it’s time to do right by listening, participating in peaceful protests, and taking action to fix our broken systems, address institutional racism, and face uncomfortable truths about our own contributions to racial injustice.

When people of color are not welcome or safe in public settings and outdoor spaces – we are failing. Only by committing to anti-racism work and dismantling systems of oppression can we move forward towards our goals of clean water and healthy lands accessible to all people.

We will report on our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice commitments and work in the coming weeks and months and invite you to weigh in and be a part of the conversation.

For those in our community who are hurting, we see you and stand with you in fighting for justice and equity.

For those who believe in our mission of clean water, healthy lands, and vibrant communities in the Potomac River region, we urge to speak up and take action to address the long-standing challenges racism weaves through the environmental movement and condemn the violence it causes in our communities.

Black lives matter.