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Dear Neighbor, The last eighteen months has been a particularly trying time for the world, nation, and our Providence community. The ongoing COVD-19 pandemic has exacerbated many of the injustices and inequalities that previously went unnoticed by too many. In response, my office created the African American Ambassador Group (AAAG) with community leaders to ensure equitable access to COVID-19-related care and resources. The group has since expanded, establishing subcommittees focused on recommending strategies to increase equity citywide. We have been meeting weekly since May 2020 on a vision that achieves racial, social, and economic equity for Black residents in Providence. Most notably, last July I signed a community-driven Executive Order committing the City to a process of Truth, Reconciliation, and municipal Reparations for Black, Indigenous People, and People of Color in the City of Providence. |
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Since early summer, we have been sharing the discovered truth of our report, A Matter of Truth, at community meetings and virtual events. Most recently, we have partnered with a Coalition of partners to launch the Reconciliation phase, where Roger Williams University, Providence Cultural Equity Institute, African American Ambassador Group, Providence Public Library and the City of Providence will engage residents, organizations, and institutions in discussing these truths. This Coalition aims to appreciate the resiliency of the Black, Indigenous People and People of Color in Providence and to better understand the ways these injuries continue to impact residents today. To engage in this work, please provide your input and perspective by participating in a newly launched survey. The five-ten minute survey can be completed from any internet connected phone, tablet, or computer. Additionally, those interested in engaging in the the work of the AAAG are encouraged to complete this form. My hope is that this process of truth brings us education and awareness of these wrong-doings and our reconciliation changes the systems that continue to oppress our communities, while reaffirming our commitment to building a more inclusive future. Thank you for joining us in this important work. Sincerely, Jorge O. Elorza |
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