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A Statement regarding WI LGBTQ History Project

July 22, 2024

Public Statement from Chris Allen, President & CEO

Update – August 14, 2024:

Diverse & Resilient has had a conversation with the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project regarding the recent situation. The discussion focused on ways to increase transparency with the community and the steps that will be taken, with a guided facilitator, to begin examining a stronger anti-racist approach in their work.

We are hopeful that these actions will lead to a more equitable and just future for our community.

Thank you for your continued support as we work toward equity and justice.

 

July 22, 2024:

Following the release of the initial joint statement by the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project on May 16, 2024, Diverse & Resilient has learned additional information that significantly impacts how we move forward with this situation.

As we continue to learn new information, Diverse & Resilient must retract our support for the previous determination that there was no evidence of racist behavior. This statement acknowledges that more work needs to be done to truly understand the details of this specific situation, and even more work needs to be done to repair and rebuild trust between communities directly impacted by racism and the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project.

Lack of Action and Transparency

During this process, voices from communities of color who were directly impacted by the use of the racial slur were not sought out and listened to. Certain details were not obtained or learned in advance, or if they were obtained, they were not shared with those approached to advise the situation.

I shared my concerns and recommendations with Michail and the History Project directly. Despite this, no further actions have been taken to address these concerns. This inaction in the face of concerns expressed by a community impacted by racism is unacceptable. It sends a message to Black and Brown voices that we will not be heard.

Moving Forward 

As the situation continues to unfold, let it be known that Diverse & Resilient firmly disagrees with the current approach taken by the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project. We believe it is crucial to:

  1. Condemn Hate Speech: Clearly denounce any use of racial slurs or hate speech in any form.
  2. Uplift Silenced Voices: Actively engage with and listen to the individuals and communities affected by this incident.
  3. Embrace Anti-Racism Values: Reaffirm our commitment to anti-racism through concrete actions and transparent communication.

Transparency in this process has not been at the level it needs to be. For that reason, Diverse & Resilient is no longer associated with the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project until a more appropriate commitment to anti-racism is displayed through their actions. We remain steadfast in our dedication to upholding the values of equity, transparency, and community engagement in all our endeavors.

 

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.