Statement on Racial Inequity and Business Support
In light of recent events which have ignited protests in all 50 states and 20 countries throughout the world, the Historic Rotary Club of Charleston strongly condemns any racial injustice, in our community, and beyond. We pray the horrific loss of Mr. George Floyd’s life will not be in vain. May he rest in peace, as we continue to work towards racial equity for all.
Over the past week, we were in disbelief at the actions of the looters and vandals on our business district. Protesting is a Constitutionally protected right, but rioting is not acceptable. Our Rotary Club denounces all senseless acts of violence. We would encourage all Rotarians, and the Lowcountry community, to support our businesses which have been impacted.
As we go forward, we will be focusing on three areas that Rotarians can be engaged with for both short-term and long-term impact:
- We encourage members of Rotary to participate in the Racial Equity Institute offered by the YWCA, and/or the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation process (also known as Racial Healing Circles) that will begin later this year in Charleston coordinated by the Social Justice Racial Equity Collaborative. These opportunities allow us to educate ourselves and lead the way toward a better understanding of racial injustice and pave the way for healing for each of us to be a part of a more just future for all to realize their full potential.
- As part of our 100th Anniversary Impact Project, we have committed $50,000 and our volunteer leadership to develop the Leadership Development Institute with the Charleston Police Department. Once established, the Institute will teach inclusive leadership skills and drive behavioral change to address implicit bias and lead to more community-centric, inclusive culture within our Police Department as a national model.
- We encourage our Rotarians and their families to support local small businesses in Charleston. Shop in locally owned stores, buy lunch or dinner or coffee at locally-owned restaurants and buy gift certificates for future use of those stores and restaurants not yet able to open. Small business is the backbone of our community, and of Rotary, so we encourage you to do your part to assure these small businesses survive and thrive.
As Rotarians, we practice “Service Above Self”, and allow the 4-Way Test to guide the things we think, do and say:
- Is it the truth?
- Is it fair to all concerned?
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Adopted by the Rotary Club of Charleston Board of Directors – June 9, 2020