When Work and Liberation Meet: A Letter for Colleagues

Colleagues,

We know in our hearts and minds that we need to do things differently. Whatever shifts we implement, whatever change we create, since we seek to do the deep work of social justice and liberation, we know we must do it together.

Our bodies carry tension every day and our complicated emotions mirror the conditions that surround us. We are tired, frustrated, and perhaps even cynical. And yet we know what we know, and we believe more fervently than ever that things can and should be better.

This has been an exceptionally challenging year on many levels, not just for us as a country, but as an organization. Without clear leadership that embodies transparency, accountability, and a demonstrated commitment to move towards more just and equitable futures, we have felt left to our own devices. We have been forced to maintain. Since most leaders are groomed to uphold the systems that elevated them, many of us are already quite adept at skillfully ‘managing up’ and being resourceful in how we push for change, but at times, even we may be tempted to put our heads down and just go through the motions to make it through another day.

What’s at risk?

Our roles become our jobs, our purpose becomes a paycheck, and we begin to look elsewhere for…