One of our guiding principles at Northeast New Jersey Legal Services (NNJLS) is to acknowledge the many injustices of the world and to work tirelessly to correct them. We at NNJLS have been deeply troubled by the persistent racial inequality in our country, the maddening recent violence, and the explosive tipping point we are currently witnessing. To our friends in Black communities and communities of color, we see you and we hear you. We believe the oppression and brutality you have endured must no longer be tolerated. We want you to know that NNJLS stands as an ally, family member, and friend that will continue its work of advocating for equal justice for all.
As a diverse team of legal services attorneys and staff who have dedicated our careers to equal justice, we here at NNJLS have a unique vantage point from which to witness the injustices that have been condoned and even perpetrated by our justice system upon communities of color. We are also keenly aware of how a long history of structural racism has led to inequalities that continue to burden these communities in ways that are increasingly impossible to ignore. Communities of color face the highest rates of unemployment and financial instability. We know that they are subject to environmental injustices and are most likely to be victimized by crime. Tragically, they are the ones who have suffered the most during the COVID-19 crisis with what are by far the highest rates of infection and death.
We hope that you will join NNJLS in solidarity with Black communities and communities of color. As recent events have made crystal clear, we have a long way to go before achieving true justice for all, requiring us all to redouble our commitment to fighting racism and injustice. Nonetheless, we are steadfast in our commitment to this cause and will continue to listen, learn, and advocate so that together we can achieve a more just and equitable world.
Please stay safe.