June 1, 2020

Hi Gang,

What do you say?

We are all searching for words. And importantly, searching for actions. Statistically, very few of you are black. That’s the reality. So, I thought it would be helpful to share an article that I received in a compelling email from my friend and colleague, Evan Sharp. Please read: Your Black Colleagues May Look Like They’re Okay — Chances Are They’re Not.

Below is Evan’s message, which he gave me permission to share with you. I’d love to hear from you as well. How are you doing?

That’s all for today.

Be well,

Jackie

From: Evan Sharp Subject: Sharing brief thoughts in light of recent racialized events in the US

Hi RRA Family – allow me to be briefly grab your attention. I send this to you in the spirit of vulnerability, good faith, trust and friendship.

I’m speaking for myself… but I, along with several of your African American colleagues (internal and external to RRA), are going through it right now.

The recent events in the US (e.g. killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, events in Central Park with Amy Cooper and Christian Cooper) are all events that continue to rip the band-aid off and reopen wounds that we constantly live through. It is increasingly (and historically) hard to be productive and steadfast in our professional lives when events like this happen in our society and personal lives. Even privileged black professionals, like me, struggle. My mother, and wife, both pray every day when I go for a jog or a late night dog walk.

For sake of brevity, this article sums up my feelings nicely: Your Black Colleagues May Look Like They’re OK – Chances Are They’re Not.

Many of you may naturally question – “What can I say? What can I do?” The brief answer is by being a supportive friend and colleague you will be doing more than most. Check in, ask questions, be vulnerable, have empathy…engage on a personal level. If you slip up, we’ll have grace. Then, and only then, can we talk about actively engaging in solutions.

Out of moments like these come courageous conversations. Out of moments like these come true courage to step into other’s shoes. Out of moments like these, we weave the culture that we want to embody, in our firm and in our communities.

If you feel compelled to respond, that’s fine. My intent isn’t to fish for support, just to share. If you can’t respond, then just process and think about supporting those close to you.

With Peace & Love,

Evan