The Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis continues to demand an end to dehumanization, prejudice, bigotry, hatred and injustice in all their forms. The senseless deaths of black people at the hands of some police officers cannot be tolerated and requires new measures of accountability.

For nearly 60 years the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis has provided hope and opportunity for all youth, particularly those who need us most. We’ve promised to inspire and enable young people to realize their full potential, preparing them for a world where they can participate as full and equal citizens. Unfortunately, because of institutionalized and systemic racism and bigotry, that reality has not been available to all.

We take a stand for social justice, equity and inclusion, and against dehumanization, bigotry, discrimination, oppression and hate. We have avoided the term “races” intentionally, because we are all part of the same race – the HUMAN RACE. We pledge to use our influence, affluence, access and privilege to help make sure that the words of the U.S Constitution ring true for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, culture, creed or color. We pledge to work towards eliminating disparities and demanding accountability on behalf of our youth so that success is within reach of all the children.

Today we each pledge in the memory of George Floyd, to listen, learn and act in order to rid our communities of all vestiges of dehumanization, bigotry, prejudice and hatred, which are now so deeply woven into the fabric of our nation. Our support will be used to foster civic engagement, accountability and leadership skills so that Club members can safely become agents of and allies for change. Download the full document, here.