Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
Listening. Learning. Standing in
Solidarity. These are the words that have resonated
with me over the last couple of weeks as I have struggled with the
realities of racism and injustice across our country. I am deeply
saddened and troubled by recent events and, like many of you, I want
to influence positive change in our community and be part of the
solution. To the Black members of our Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida
Community, I want you to know that I see you. And I care.
The other word that keeps coming to me is
Hope. I am filled with hope as I see people of all
ages and races come together and be united against racism and
injustice. I am filled with hope when I see children and teenagers
finding their voices and becoming advocates for themselves and for
others. And I am filled with hope knowing that this generation of
changemakers won’t stop until they live in a society that is equal for
all people.
At Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, we are
committed to an anti-racist environment where all girls feel welcome,
encouraged, and empowered. We recognize that there is work to be done
and we will do that work. This is a time for honesty and for action.
Whether it is raising our own awareness, showing compassion and
empathy, condemning racial inequality and violence, or advocating for
change, it will take all of us working together to make a true and
lasting impact.
The works starts with us. With the full
support of our Board of Directors, my team and I are committed to the
work ahead. We will need your help as we work to figure out exactly
what that looks like and how we will work together and hold one
another accountable. We are ready to listen and learn. And we are
ready to use our collective values and voices to make this world a
better place.
As always, I welcome your thoughts and
ideas as we navigate this together. We are exploring options for our
Girl Scout community to come together to start the conversation and
will be sharing that on our Social Media platforms. You can always
reach me via email, at the office (561-815-1805) or on
my cell (561-722-8000).
Sincerely,
Lisa Y. Johnson
Chief Executive Officer
Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida
