Dear Friends of VIP,
I hope this letter finds you in good health.
America is in pain and we are all trying to heal, one day at a time. If you are experiencing anxiety, sadness, and hurt, you are not alone. We wrap our arms around each of you during this time and want you to know that you matter. At VIP, you can always find a home and you are safe here.
The loss of far too many Black lives has caused tremendous pain for many people in our community and across the country. It is hard enough dealing with the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has turned lives upside down, and painful enough to see the effects of racial inequities and social injustice in how the pandemic has affected communities of color. Now we are faced with the senseless murder of George Floyd and several other recent cruel acts of racism.
We stand in full support with those of you who are marching peacefully to demand justice and bring about lasting changes. Our communities need your voice, action, and commitment to real change. I beg that you protect yourselves against COVID-19 with social distancing and face coverings while you are protesting.
I am proud of the racial and ethnic diversity of our staff at VIP, and that regardless of where we come from or the color of our skin, we are bound by our shared mission to improve the lives of the Bronx community. Our daily work fulfilling our mission, respecting individuals regardless of who they are, their affiliations or groups, sets an example for the world to follow.
VIP remains committed to the work of addressing racial inequities in healthcare, housing, and employment practices. We work to build stronger community-police partnerships and safer neighborhoods. We will continue to do our part in the Bronx and stand with each of you in this fight to find solutions to racial injustices.
Regards,
Debbian Fletcher-Blake
Chief Executive Officer