Black Lives Matter

Mercy Corps joins 40 other groups and individuals in standing in solidarity with the Black community in the United States:

As U.S.-based organizations and individuals that work around the world to protect all people, advance dignity, and promote basic human rights, we know firsthand how the absence of justice undermines peace, safety and prosperity.

Therefore, we will not turn a blind eye here in the United States to systemic racism, state-sanctioned violence, failure to apply the law equitably, and blatant abuse of power. These injustices cannot continue. 

Law enforcement institutions must not prey on Black communities. No government should use the military or police against its own people, and no one should be beaten or jailed for pursuing justice. The media should not be discredited or attacked. 

To be clear: 

Black Lives Matter. 

The public is not an armed opposition group. Everyone has the right to demonstrate peacefully. 

All human rights violations by law enforcement must be investigated, and all perpetrators must be held to account. 
 

We call on all Americans – especially our elected leaders – to make the changes required so we may finally realize the ideals for which this country aspires to stand. 

We must work together to dismantle systemic racism, particularly against the Black community, and the inequalities that have existed before and since this country was founded. 

We stand in solidarity with the Black community, other marginalized groups, and all those working toward justice. 

We commit to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion in our organizations, to listen, and to use our voice as allies in this essential fight.