To our grant partners, advocates, and organizers,

Around the world and here in the Bay Area we are witnessing the tremendous outpouring of outrage, pain and grief over yet another Black life lost to police violence.  We, too, are outraged and mourning the destruction of too many lives to systemic violence and racism, including the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and so many others before them.  We denounce white supremacy and are hopeful that this moment presents a chance for real and long-overdue transformation.

We understand that no transformation is more necessary than ending systemic racism.  This means acknowledging and addressing the structural inequities that exist throughout our systems, from economic, health and education to social services, justice and law enforcement. It also means listening to and learning from the experiences and voices of the Black community and all communities of color, as their leadership will make real change possible.

We don’t pretend to have the answers, and we are grappling with all the lessons this moment brings.  But we are committed to doing our part, including challenging ourselves to better understand the presence and implications of racism throughout our institutions and our society.  The road ahead is long and we have much to learn, but we are committed to the journey.

With our deepest respect and support,

Thomas Zellerbach
Chairman of the Board and President

Allison Magee
Executive Director