Originally posted Jun 9, 2020. Updated May 16, 2022.
We are heartbroken over the senseless murders recently in Buffalo and so many other Black Americans leading up to this pivotal moment in our history. We are hopeful that one day we will all stand up and speak up against these crimes and systemic racism. We are heartened by the response of so many Americans that have already spoken up to say that we must be better – that the status quo is unacceptable.
As an organization predominantly consisting of white men and women, many of us have not been subjected to racism. However, we recognize that this does not exempt us from working to create change. We recognize, that if anything, it requires us to be a catalyst for change and to resist the temptation that a quiet complacency is adequate.
At StraightUp Solar we pledge to do better.
- We will work to increase our awareness of racism and to engage in hard and uncomfortable conversations when they arise. In doing so, we commit to creating a workplace that treats everyone equally and with dignity.
- We will work to increase the diversity of our team and expand employment opportunities through solar training for people of color in our communities.
- We will work, through coordinated efforts, to support and invest in black and underserved communities with our time and energy (financial and otherwise).
Ultimately, as a certified B-Corp StraightUp Solar has always played the long game with a commitment to sustainable change for our communities and the environment. That commitment renews daily. Today, we step forward with a renewed focus that honors love over fear and spurns hatred and violence.
With love and resolve,
The Team Members of StraightUp Solar
