A Letter to Our Community: Renewal of Commitment
Dear Community,
We write this letter deeply grounded in the mission that has always guided us: working inside and outside of the system to heal the past, reimagine the present, and invest in the future of Black lives. We do this by strengthening our communities and committing to a world where our people can grow, thrive, and experience joy on the path to liberation.
With compassion in our hearts, we share that Shalomyah Bowers’ time on the board has come to an end, and our work with Bowers’ consulting firm has also ceased. Moments like these, though never easy, are part of how liberation movements evolve and endure. Throughout history, movements for liberation have always faced pivotal moments in which difficult decisions had to be made to keep the mission alive. We are now at one of those moments. Every abolitionist space requires navigating internal growing pains and external opposition. Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation understands that true progress begins from within, and like the freedom fighters before us, we stand firm in our purpose. Fear and disconnection may threaten to divide us, but please be assured that our dedication to dismantling systemic oppression remains as strong as ever.
At the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, we honor the strength and vision of Black women by leading with purpose. We recognize the profound resilience it takes to nurture a nation while also tirelessly working to advance our community’s collective progress. There is a sacred instinct that lives in us: the need to protect, to defend, to hold space for our children and our people even when the path ahead feels uncertain. And yet, we also must honor our duty to protect what we steward while upholding the collective good.
Black Lives Matter has faced and overcome many challenges over the years. We do not take the responsibility to serve our community lightly. As we move forward, we plan to do so with renewed strength and focus. We are here to serve. We are here to protect. We are here to transform what generosity, solidarity, and collective care can look like in practice. We are here because Black lives, in all of our beauty, resilience and complexity, demand nothing less than our full commitment.
As we navigate this time, our commitment to transparency, integrity, and faithful stewardship of the resources entrusted to us will not waver. This includes addressing conflicts of interest in meaningful ways, as the board expands. Every dollar, every partnership, every decision we make will remain in service to Black liberation, Black joy, and Black futures. Our partners and allies make this work possible. Together, we keep building the future we imagine.
We invite you to continue walking with us. To dream with us. To build with us. To hold us accountable and to continue showing up with open hearts and steady hands.
With hope and with unwavering love,
Cicley Gay and D’Zhane Parker
Board of Directors, Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation
