We will continue showing up for City Heights, connecting residents to resources, and supporting our community’s wellbeing during times of uncertainty.

Today, we stand together in unity to honor and celebrate Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. It marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom – a full two and half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. 

All year long, we’ve shared stories of the community to celebrate four decades of community power, and now we’re asking you to invest in the decades to come by donating where it’s needed most.

This letter was originally sent to our staff, but we’re modifying it as an ‘open letter’ to you, our friends, partners, and neighbors in City Heights.

We are outraged, disgusted, but not without hope as we join the millions of Americans standing in solidarity and saying Black Lives Matter. By speaking up, the community refuses to allow the murders committed against black women and men to ever be considered normal or acceptable.

Diversity is lifeblood to a strong democracy, there is no true justice without equity, there is no way forward for all people, the whole community, without inclusion.