Insight
A Message from the RESOLVE Network Secretariat in Response to the Murder of George Floyd
Dear Colleagues,
In response to the murder of George Floyd, the RESOLVE Network Secretariat stands in solidarity with Black communities in the United States and all over the world in the fight against systemic racism, injustice, inaction, and violence.
This is not just a momentary crisis but an iteration in the annals of the long history of systemic racism, white supremacy, and social inequity. These dynamics are not unique to the United States. There is no way to move ahead from this crisis without stating clearly that Black Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter everywhere. We all must take concerted action to make these statements a reality.
Those of us working to address conflict, violent extremism, security sector impunity, and abusive governance must speak loudly against injustice no matter where it occurs. Our work consistently highlights the imperative of good governance, trust, and inclusive social structures to address enduring inequities and grievances. Mechanisms for positive social action and civic participation are to be protected. When the state furthers cycles of violence through policies and politics, we all lose. Sustainable peace comes from affirmative leadership, policies, laws, institutions, and an unwavering commitment to uphold the principles of justice, accountability, and equality for all.
Going forward, the RESOLVE Network Secretariat is prepared to further our mission with intentional efforts to address these systems of injustice and will communicate those commitments.
We invite all members and friends of the RESOLVE Network to respond to this message; to think critically about how we can pursue intentional anti-racist approaches to research, peacebuilding, and policy; and to begin implementing sustained, collective, and purposeful action including within our own institutions.
Our work, our research, and our actions are relevant everywhere and key to dismantling systems of injustice and ending patterns of violence. Our collective mission and security depend on it.
In solidarity,
The RESOLVE Network Secretariat
Kateira Aryaeinejad
Boglarka Bozsogi
Wyatt Chandler
Leanne Erdberg Steadman
Megan Loney
Bethany McGann
Alastair Reed
For any further media inquiries please contact resolve@resolvenet.org