To Our Members And The Communities We Serve
June 11, 2020 • 3 minute read
WSECU joins with the voices demanding change. As a cooperative founded by women and men in public service, we’ve always believed that when individuals come together in shared purpose, they can achieve extraordinary things. Right now our nation’s shared purpose must be to address the injustices and inequities that have resulted from centuries of systemic racism.
The recent tragic killings of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia and Breonna Taylor in Kentucky have brought deep pain to their families and to the world. We condemn this violence. Their deaths, along with the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Black community, have further exposed the deeply ingrained, unresolved issue of racism in this country. Hundreds of thousands of people across the U.S. have been peacefully marching in response seeking redress, and we are moved by their calls to action.
Historically, WSECU has contributed to a stronger society by offering equitable financial services and opportunities to increase financial stability. These are ways we help address economic inequality, which often goes hand-in-hand with racial inequality. However, we understand we must do more.
To our members, employees and communities: We start with a commitment to these actions, knowing that this must only be the beginning.
For our members
- Provide products and services that advance the financial well-being for all members.
- Assure training for staff to better understand how they can listen to, serve and make a difference in members’ lives without bias.
For our employees
- Examine and strengthen our diversity, equity and inclusion strategies to further a more inclusive culture and increase diversity and understanding across the credit union.
For our communities
- Expand investments in organizations working towards greater racial and economic justice, which will continue to include and expand college access programs for first generation college students.
- Commit to working collectively with allies to combat and disrupt instances of hate, racism, intolerance and violence in our communities.
As a Board of Directors
- Continue to prioritize that the Board is strongest with diverse representation and advance policies that promote equity for our members.
As part of the Credit Union movement
- Work to strengthen financial regulations that help historically underserved communities of color from a position of members helping members.
There is only one way to tackle racial injustice and inequity: together. It is more important than ever to speak out against all racism and begin conversations, no matter how uncomfortable, to listen and learn from one another to create a more just world.
Credit unions were founded in part on the principles of people helping people and serving the underserved. We recommit to these principles and to identifying the additional work we can do as a credit union to reduce systemic racism.
Our hope in humanity runs deep. As a nation – and a credit union - we are strongest when every voice is heard, respected and protected.
Thank you,
Gary Swindler
Gary Swindler
President & CEO
Marcus Glasper
Marcus Glasper
Board Chair