I noted in my introductory article that I want to specifically address racial equity issues and planned district actions. The problem of racial inequities is in our midst. This crisis is happening in the lives of our fellow Rotarians, some of whom receive bomb threats because of their country of origin. Rotarians worry for our children’s safety. Will they be threatened because of the color of their skin? 

 

We know progress has occurred, but we must work harder to overcome centuries of inequities. First, remember who we are: Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.  We are People of Action.

 

I want to highlight three initiatives in our district to raise awareness and start to take action to promote lasting change:

 

Racial Equity Conversations:  At the district level, we are partnering with the YMCA Equity Innovation Center to facilitate a three-part conversation to better understand the inequities in our communities, address unconscious bias, and start developing action plans. Detailed information on the sessions and the registration process was sent to all district club presidents. We can accommodate two members from each club. I encourage all club presidents to register, and invite one other member from each club.  Please review the flyer at left and direct your questions to Catherine Gump (cagump@icloud.com), Brock Ray (brock@brockray.com), and/or Natalie Johnson Lee (nataliejohnsonlee@gmail.com)

 

Bloomington Community Conversation:  The Bloomington Noon Club is sponsoring a Community Conversation on Racial Equity on July 27 at 5:30. Two of the five panelists are Rotarians: Bloomington Chief of Police Jeff Potts and Normandale Community College President Joyce Ester. They will address racial equity in Bloomington. The conversation will take place in person with community members and be broadcast on Bloomington Facebook Live. Email any questions to Bloomington Club President Mark Adkins (adkim01@hotmail.com).

 

George Floyd Memorial Scholarship: Led by Minneapolis University Club, eight clubs are establishing a scholarship fund for a Black student from Minneapolis to study at the University of MN.  (See additional article.)

 

Together, these are actions that truly Open Opportunities for everyone in our communities!

 

In Rotary service,
DG Tom