This weekend in Charlottesville we witnessed an act of domestic terrorism by white nationalists. Since May, this resurgence of white nationalist violence has resulted in murders from Oregon to Virginia, and is more threatening with each passing day. This cannot become the new normal.

We as a nation must confront the rise of organized white nationalism and white supremacy head on. We must stand together in the fight for freedom, justice, community, and a more inclusive democracy. We must remain vigilant in not only condemning the violence and hateful rhetoric, but also denouncing those who seek to politically benefit from division and hatred.

Racism in this country is both structurally embedded in our institutions and ingrained in the rhetoric of white supremacists who have been newly emboldened by the Trump administration. We commend the state and local leaders who have been explicit in their condemnation of white nationalists and their forceful rejection of the ideals they represent. We at Race Forward will be watching closely to see if their actions follow their rhetoric and work to hold them accountable.

Race Forward stands behind all of the people on the frontlines who are putting themselves in harm’s way to beat back hate, racism, xenophobia, and violence. A strong multiracial movement is the only solution for dismantling structural racism. Race Forward is committed to building that movement. Together, we have the power to shape a future that elevates the voices of communities of color that have been most marginalized and oppressed, and together build a multiracial, inclusive democracy in which all can thrive.  

Glenn Harris

President, Race Forward: The Center for Racial Justice Innovation 

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Race Forward: The Center for Racial Justice Innovation united with Center for Social Inclusion in 2017 to become the new Race Forward.

Founded in 1981, Race Forward brings systemic analysis and an innovative approach to complex race issues to help people take effective action toward racial equity. Founded in 2002, CSI catalyzes community, government, and other institutions to dismantle structural racial inequity and create equitable outcomes for all.

The new Race Forward is home to the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE), a national network of government working to achieve racial equity and advance opportunities for all. Race Forward publishes the daily news site Colorlines and presents Facing Race, the country’s largest multiracial conference on racial justice.