DMI Statement 6-2-20

On June 2, 2020, the following statement was issued by DMI:

We are a community in pain.  Our Black Community friends, co-workers, family members and neighbors continue to be in crisis.  We recognize, and acknowledge, the devastating impacts overt and covert racism, police brutality, systematic injustice, and institutionalized bias has on all communities of color.  DMI is working to acknowledge and address our own role in these issues and determine how we can do better.

We also recognize the pain felt by businesses downtown.  The hardship already inflicted by the pandemic is now compounded by violence and looting.

We don’t have the answers, but believe that diversity strengthens Downtown Madison, and our entire community, and we encourage our members to engage with, learn from, and develop an understanding of people of color in Madison.  DMI is listening, learning and leveraging our relationships to identify, confront and dismantle cultural barriers that deprive any individual of meaningful opportunities to fully participate in life downtown.  DMI is committed to change.  We stand in solidarity with Madison’s Black Community.

DMI has many members whose missions and voices most directly address racial diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage those looking for resources, ways to get involved, and how to donate financially, to reach out to these organizations and support them in their work.