STATEMENT FROM FRANCES P. SYKES: We Stand in Support of Black Lives

As founder and president of the Pascale Sykes Foundation, I not only stand firmly against police brutality and discrimination in any form, but also advocate against the white privilege so woven into our society that many people may not recognize it.

I urge all of us to work within our institutions, neighborhoods and families to invite, welcome and accept opinions and direction from those who may seem different from ourselves. It will be uncomfortable, but is absolutely necessary. As individuals, we have a myriad of ways to take action including adjusting our words and actions to uplift the voices of communities of color and step aside so they too have an equal say in the matters that impact their lives. 

Good things take time. Growth is not easy. We can’t act only once and say we’ve done our part. This will take an ongoing effort. I hope to join others as we work toward real change for our communities, families and the world in which we live.  

Frances P. Sykes