Andy Wharhol famously wrote, "They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.
So, what does Racism have to do with the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF)—an $800 million charitable foundation that holds assets and helps direct gifts to charitable organizations? Ah! There's a question I'm sure some of its board members asked when they were approached with the idea of changing its mission statement from one which reflected its logical operation of promoting charitable giving to one that addressed the issues of racism.
I'm sure there were some blank stares around the room. CICF, a behemoth pillar of the Indianapolis charitable community, has announced a new mission—one that recognizes the lack of opportunity available to some of our residents. Its mission now says its goal is to create a "community where every individual has equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter their place, race or identity."
Sounds good. But will it make any difference? You bet your Gucci loafers it makes a difference. Brian Payne, CICF's CEO has already made substantive changes to the internal workings of the foundation, creating a new position of Vice President of opportunity, equity and inclusion, and has begun an ambassador program in which a diverse group of representatives share the challenges and issues facing their neighborhoods. This is a powerful addition to what is becoming a tsunami of positive change in our city.
Where once, Indianapolis seemed focused on increasing its brick and mortar skyline, it appears now to be focused on the more difficult, yet more laudable task of caring for its people. Just consider the changes in how our police interact with inner-city residents, how change-makers like Stop the Violence Indianapolis, Jobs for Life, Outreach, Inc., Shepard Community Center, Wheeler Mission Ministries, Goodwill of Central Indiana, and so many others are working with at-risk people and communities.
We at UNITE INDY believe we can become a city that is more than "the crossroads of America," We believe Indianapolis can be "The heart of America." Our strategy is to forge connections between suburban churches and inner-city churches and schools, to connect businesses of all sizes to organizations that need support, and to create a city-wide volunteer portal, to provide volunteers to help continue the good work that is being done by these gifted change-makers. Another major effort is to publish and expose issues of inequity and need in our city, to raise awareness and motivate everyone to get involved in making our city a place where neighbors are cared for and given every opportunity for success.
And finally, UNITE INDY serves the servants, by walking along side urban ministers, with help and support. The great philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche famously said, "The snake which cannot cast its skin has to die. As well the minds which are prevented from changing their opinions; they cease to be mind." Racism is a reflection of fear and stupidity. It takes smart, fearless people to shuck that old snake skin. CICF will be a great partner in this task. Blessings,
Nancy
