We stand with all those in peaceful protest, seeking to create change, and working hard to end racial inequalities for everyone. In these pivotal moments, it shines a light on the progress that still needs to be made and the importance of everyone – individuals, families, and organizations – to unite under a common cause, to act, and end systemic racism.
In times like these, we often think about the life path our father took and what he would have had to say. Our dad grew up as a poor black kid in Mississippi during the 50s and 60s. He told us stories of injustices, inequalities, racism, fear, and hatred that seemed like they were from a movie and hard to fathom as reality. But he was lucky enough to be born into a family that surrounded him with love, support, and resilience. He went on to become an orthopedic surgeon, always at the top of his class, earning scholarships and working part-time jobs to make his way through.
He came to work in Cleveland as an original member of the first all-black medical private practice in Ohio, undoubtedly facing hurdles their white counterparts never encountered. He met our mom here and together they worked relentlessly to give us a better life than they ever had. They taught us with their example of love, hard work, high moral standards, and standing for what’s right. He passed away 12 years ago and we can still feel his presence guiding us. We work hard every day to live up to the high bar he set.
Now, as we find ourselves not just as black leaders, but also leaders of a company, these lessons from our parents ring truer now more than ever. We’ve always been committed to building a company that’s based on inclusivity and equality but there is always a place to improve and elevate what we do. We’re committed to being a shining example, among many, of what a black-led company can be and the positivity we can bring to society. And with this, consistently help shift the underlying discriminatory perceptions of what people can do because of their skin color that is the foundation of systemic racism.
Don’t let the destruction from the few drown out the good work of the many. Let’s remember the message of the movement. Let’s not forget a month, a year, a decade down the road. Let’s work together. Let’s stand for what’s right. Let’s surround each other with love. Let’s all be a part of the change.
In it together,
Jarred + Brandon, The NOOMA Bros
