The Events of This Week

This most recent national and global crisis has deeply shaken us all, as COVID-19 and its economic repercussions remain significant challenges in many areas. As I read through the headlines and witness first-hand the devastation and violence, I particularly recognize the pain our African-American colleagues may be experiencing. I’m saddened by the lack of progress we’ve made as a nation and acknowledge that, as leaders, we have much more work to do.

We are all grieving with those who have suffered from an unjust system—as well as the senseless deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and many other Black Americans. The recent protests and demonstrations reveal the deep-seated anger toward systemic racism in our country. We know discrimination extends to many other marginalized groups and inequities still exist throughout our organizations and communities, but ACHE remains committed to standing against racism, racist beliefs, injustice and violence of any kind.

ACHE believes in the fair and equitable treatment of all people—and our commitment to this goes back decades. We hold diversity and inclusion as a core organizational value that has driven much of our strategy, operations and accomplishments over the years. We also understand that our progress as an organization and profession has not yet yielded the best results. We commit to use this time of multilayered crises as a catalyst for leveraging diverse perspectives that will produce innovative approaches and meaningful outcomes. We must recognize the magnitude of this moment, and stand together to reduce disparities and foster inclusion in every respect.

My commitment to you, as we navigate these difficult times, is to ensure this is not just a statement in the heat of the crisis. The ACHE Board of Governors and leadership team will continue to elevate the work necessary to affect real change. Please continue to support one another, listen to each other and seek understanding—this is one way we can be leaders who care.
 
Deborah J. Bowen, FACHE, CAE
President and CEO