Inclusion Statement

Stephanie Acker

Executive Director

As millions of people in the United States and around the world take to the streets in our communities to protest the killing of George Floyd and the ongoing problem of unequal justice, PGN has stepped up to show it's support for our neighbors, friends, and Black PGN community members. Our student chapters have come together to create a fundraiser for the Equal Justice Initiative, an organization that is working to combat mass incarceration, excessive punishment, and racial inequality. We've been fortunate to receive an overwhelming response, raising over $5,000 in just 48 hours.

In addition to supporting our national fundraiser, the National Council will be meeting to discuss the additional modifications, education, and training we can incorporate into our programming to support anti-racism activities at a campus and alumni level. I've already had a few of you reach out to me directly about driving this discussion. Please continue to engage and consider applying for some of our open director positions that will be posted in the next few weeks to help shape our future policies. 

Like myself, I'm sure many of your social media feeds have recently been inundated with written and video content on the protests and historical injustice in the United States. It is easy to get fatigued and disengage during this time, but this is my promise to all of you that PGN will not get fatigued and will not disengage when things 'go back to normal'. We will continue to speak up and take action to foster our ideals and values - supporting a diverse community and inclusivity for all. 

The world can seem like an overwhelming place right now. Take a deep breath and ask for help. If you need a place to get started, the National Council can provide you with resources to educate yourself and provide additional ways for you to get involved. 

This is only the beginning of how we do better.

Regards,

Stephanie