For some of us, police violence and the challenges imposed by systemic racism impact our daily lives in ways that others of us will never experience. For those of us whose skin tone affords white privilege, the work of learning and growing—and fighting to change that dynamic— takes on new urgency. And for all of us, our inability to be with family or friends as we practice social distancing makes it harder still to process everything.  

But, the sadness and anger of these past weeks has grown into encouragement and hope. We draw inspiration from those of you who have marched in the protests, spoken out passionately and eloquently on social media and to friends and loved ones, or engaged in the necessary work of self-reflection and ongoing education required by us all to identify how we directly or indirectly perpetuate systemic injustices. 

We share a commitment to fundamentally change the way our society works, so the values of freedom, justice, and equality are truly reflected and felt by all, and are not just words said to pacify us in times of despair. We feel fortunate to work together with all of you on these issues on behalf of and in partnership with causes, candidates, and organizations that tirelessly advocate for the values we share. Additionally, we recognize the need to and join in the calls to center and listen to Black voices and leaders who have been doing this work for decades. In that vein, here are a few organizations in this space that we hope you will consider supporting. 

The Advancement Project reinforces and grows the capacity of today's grassroots activists and the local organizers fighting to build power for communities of color.

The Bail Project’s National Revolving Bail Fund is on a mission to combat mass incarceration and reshape the pretrial system in the United States. 100% of online donations are used to bring people home.

The Black Voters Matter Fund works to build power in Black communities through effective voting that “allows a community to determine its own destiny.”

BOLD (Black Organizing for Leadership and Dignity) is a national training intermediary focused on transforming the practice of Black organizers in the US to increase their alignment, impact and sustainability to win progressive change.

The NAACP Legal Defense Fund, through litigation, advocacy, and public education, seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans.

The Pretrial Justice Institute, whose core purpose is to advance safe, fair, and effective juvenile and adult pretrial justice practices and policies that honor and protect all people.

Thank you,

Lake Research Partners