Coaster Stands with the Black Community

I’ve had some time to allow the tragedy of George Floyd sink in.  And even though it has been weeks since his murder, it still feels raw and emotional. 

I asked myself, how did we get here?  How could this happen?  How could this cop blatantly abuse his power at this magnitude, and how could his peers standing beside him allow for this to happen?  Immediately following Floyd’s death, the blasts on email, TV, and social media began, all taking a stand against racism, police brutality and with support of the Black community.  While I was moved by this unity, I also questioned if all of this activity was simply checking off a box?

Then I realized, I am the problem. 

I am a privileged, white male without the foundational understanding of why we are here.  The color of my skin and my view that “everyone is equal” has not allowed for me to see my black friends, colleagues, acquaintances, and strangers for who they truly are.  I have never taken the time to try to feel the pain and suffering the Black community has endured for generations.  Too often I empathize with the imbalances that I witness as a society, but never have taken action.  Thinking and feeling is NOT doing.  But quite honestly, I have never known what exactly to do, nor have ever felt that I truly can make a difference.

Today I am taking action to demonstrate that I, along with the Coaster Cycles team is in 100% support of the Black community.  In addition to enforcing our Code of Conduct that strictly does not condone racism, below are some actions that will go into effect immediately. 

• Acknowledge and recognize police brutality and advocate for immediate and consequential changes amongst our police departments nationwide.
• I will ensure that Black men and women have greater opportunities to advance at Coaster through entrepreneurship programs.
• Make direct financial donations and investments in causes that support the Black Lives Matter movement.
• Make Coaster a more diverse and inclusive work environment for people of color.

For too long I have internalized and compartmentalized my feelings, as demonstrated in my delay in making this statement. 

Today I vow to change.  I will no longer be silent.

To all my fellow colleagues- Educate Yourself. Speak Up. Take a Stance. Don’t be Silent. 

#BlackLivesMatter today, and everyday.

Coaster Stands With You.

Sincerely,

Ben Morris

CEO & Founder

Coaster Cycles