Purpose Built Communities believes that we cannot address the root causes of poverty without directly addressing race and the continuing impacts of systemic racism. As a result, racial equity is one of the main lenses through which we view and do our work.

Yesterday’s guilty verdict for George Floyd’s murderer was a long overdue step towards accountability for a system that has failed Black people and people of color for far too long. While justice has been served in this particular trial, for too many Black families it is often justice denied. We know the road ahead is long and difficult, but the journey must continue. It will require bravery and hard work from all of us. We must keep working to create a just society where Black people can live without fear of police, their government and fellow citizens.

— Carol R. Naughton, CEO, Purpose Built Communities