At Concordia, we hold at our very core the belief that collaborating with diverse communities and partnering with those who share a wide range of backgrounds is critical to finding equitable and impactful solutions to the world’s greatest challenges. Meaningful solutions and the achievement of true social good do not come from just one perspective, but from peaceful collaborative efforts.
The events that took place last week in Charlottesville do not reflect these beliefs. We will not stand for hatred, racial bigotry, or anti-Semitism and believe these to be values that disregard one’s basic, inalienable humanity. We condemn the white supremacists, neo-Nazis, Ku Klux Klan and the resulting violence which perpetuated hatred and polarization among Americans that simply cannot be tolerated. Diversity should be celebrated, not a source of division.
As the global community unites to confront pressing challenges, the common objective to bring an end to discrimination and unjust conditions must guide us in each step of the process. Moving forward, as we reflect on the tragic events in Charlottesville, it is clear that we each have a moral responsibility to act on both an individual and organizational level to take a stance against hatred and bigotry.
Matthew A. Swift
Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO, Concordia
