Our Esperança family,
I am saddened and outraged by the tragic death of George Floyd, and those before him including Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, at the hands of law enforcement officers – the latest example of the systemic inequities and injustices faced by so many in this country and throughout the world. As a nation we should expect better and must do the work necessary to ensure the safety and dignity of all people.
Esperança has been serving disenfranchised, underserved, and vulnerable people for 50 years. We work in the messy and complicated gap between where people are and what they need to live hopeful and healthy lives. The gap is huge and will take time to bridge when one day we will see our vision of health equity for everyone fulfilled.
Our founder, Father Luke Tupper, once said “God help those of us, who during life have been given so much, do all in our power to help those in the world who have been given so little.” I believe Father Luke’s “prayer” has as much relevance today as it did so many years ago.
We know this week’s headlines are a symptom of a larger problem – one that cuts across every aspect of society. This is the time and we are the ones who need to make a difference! We are all needed to build a better world – one in which inequities, racism, and social injustices are not allowed to go unchecked and where our structure and systems are not perpetuating them in the first place.
Esperança stands ready to continue working towards creating a better world. Won’t you join us?