May 30, 2020
RE: AKL Statement on the Killing of George Floyd
This past week has been one of anger and frustration for many Americans, including many of our members, over the killing of George Floyd. This tragedy is yet another vivid illustration that in 2020 American citizens of our nation continue to fear for their lives based on the color of their skin. We do not believe statements alone matter or will make a difference in our communities or in our society overall. That is why we don’t typically issue statements on important events of the day. Words are empty without action. There comes a point, however, when it is irresponsible to remain silent when silence approaches complicity.
We are at that point.
We expect our members to act in a manner that supports equality and justice for all. We expect our members to act as Men of Character Committed to Making a Difference. We stand ready to support our members and our society as the effort continues to change our world to be a better place for all.
As an organization, we will be working to find ways to better educate our members on issues related to social justice and equality. We will be working on ways to continue to support our communities no matter their identities. Our mission is to make a difference and we will continue to work to do so.
