WGC Statement on the Death of Mr. George Floyd

The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) stands with the Black community in Howard County and across the country in the wake of the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and those who have lost their lives senselessly as a result of abuse of power and the systemic racism that continues to permeate our country.
 
"The WGC is committed to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in our own work, and in the field of philanthropy" said Barb Van Winkle, Chair of the WGC Advisory Board. "Our efforts include using our resources to achieve systematic change in political, social, and economic institutions that influence the lives of women and girls." 
 
This tragedy reinforces our commitment to gender and racial equity for women, girls, and our community, which the WGC will continue to demonstrate through our mission, values, and grantmaking.
 
"Impactful and meaningful dialogue and initiatives will continue to be integrated into WGC's DEI programs to ensure that the WGC is an active participant in the change that must occur" said Judy Smith and Hina Naseem, co-Chairs of WGC's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. "We are committed to doing our part, and acknowledge our responsibility to be a part of the solution."
 
"You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining ... you make progress by implementing ideas." - Shirley Chisholm 

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