We Stand with the Black Community with Love, Compassion and Support

June 11, 2020

Dear Sunflower Hill Community,

Our hearts are heavy with the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and countless other victims of senseless violence against Black people. As an organization, we are joining in grief and solidarity with the Black community and all others who are speaking out against injustice. These past few weeks have been a time of reflection and conversation among the staff and leadership of Sunflower Hill as we look deeper into the racial injustices inflicted upon the Black community, and what we can do within the organization to strive towards greater racial equality.

We know that change begins with each of us as individuals. Sunflower Hill is comprised of deeply caring individuals who strive to create supportive environments where people thrive. I know that our organization will bring the same tenacity to this conversation. I have been incredibly inspired by the conversations that have transpired over these past few weeks; they are raw and real as this is not an easy topic.

As a result, we have created a Diversity Taskforce to assess and implement real, tangible change within our organization. Sunflower Hill’s mission of supporting adults with development disabilities will guide us as we identify ways to improve as an organization. We commit to deepening our understanding of this important issue and to pursue specific ways we can change to better serve the Black community and all people of color. We are committed to continuing to embrace change and create spaces and places where people thrive.

Warmly,

Edie Nehls, Executive Director

Kathy Layman, Sunflower Hill Board President