IAAPA President Addresses Global Team about Racism

June 9, 2020

Dear IAAPA Team,

The horrific death of George Floyd and subsequent protests in the U.S. in the past weeks has shaken our country’s consciousness and risen awareness of the reality of racial discrimination and inequitable treatment of people of color. At IAAPA, we believe in treating each other with respect and inclusivity and together we celebrate the diversity of the people we employ and serve around the world. 

The safety of our team is our number-one priority and the recent tragic events against people of color has called into question whether they can feel safe and protected. In personal conversations I have had with our team, I have a better understanding how this reality is true in their everyday lives. No one should have to live in fear like this.

We are an association of diverse races, religions, and cultures and with that comes the responsibility to ensure we all have equal opportunity and are treated with respect. This also means providing opportunities to be heard and share different perspectives that together will help IAAPA become an even stronger association.

My commitment to you:

  • To stand with our black and African American employees to advocate for the elimination of inequality and brutality in our communities
  • To ensure we provide a safe work environment for our team
  • To develop opportunities for conversations that will help us understand how we can celebrate and harness the power of our diversity and be the most safe and equitable employer in supporting our team members
  • To not tolerate and take swift action in situations when any form of discrimination or oppression occurs in IAAPA

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant and unprecedented impact on all our lives, and the unrest in Hong Kong and the U.S. have impacted us all as well.  The time to support and listen to one another is even more imperative now. My door and the doors of our leadership team are always open to you, to listen, and understand the best ways to support our team around the world. Our Human Resources team is always available to connect you with resources that may help.

I do not have all the answers, but I am committed to be part of the solution. I want to thank you for all you do for each other and our members. I am so proud to work alongside this dedicated and compassionate team.

With great sincerity and gratitude,


 
Hal McEvoy
President and CEO, IAAPA