June 1, 2020

It Starts With a Conversation.

Dear New Forum Family,  

Like so many in America we are deeply saddened and troubled by the recent killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery.  

America was founded on the principle that all people are created equal. Unfortunately, tragedies such as these and so many others before them are painful reminders of how far we have to go to fulfill our country’s potential as a land “with liberty and justice for all.”

Right now, we are at one of the most important moments in American history that we will witness in our lifetimes, and every one of us has a choice – to choose kindness over animosity, tolerance over bigotry, empathy over indifference, peace over violence, action over silence and most importantly, love over hate.  

I was moved by the way NBC News anchor Lester Holt finished his broadcast last night. He shared his hope that “the explosion of raw emotion” will be viewed as a “beginning for a better life” for all of us. He showed a picture of Santa Cruz Police Chief Andy Mills kneeling with protestors in California. I believe Lester’s idea of a better life is possible for everyone, but we will need to focus on the issues by listening to each other, having conversations on what needs to be done and finding ways that we, as a company, can help make change happen.

As I shared during our corporate values kickoff in February, I believe “It all starts with a conversation.” I am writing this note to start that conversation so that your voices are heard, to provide a forum for thoughtful dialogue on the betterment of our community and businesses, and above all, to do whatever we can to put an end to these injustices that have no place in the world, much less our own country.

Your voice matters. Please email us at newforumfamily@newforum.net.

-Charley Hodges
CEO & President New Forum