A Message from the Andre House Community
June 29, 2020
Over the last several weeks, events in our country have increased awareness about the unjust
treatment of Black Americans by police departments and people in power. Andre House condemns the murders of
George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Dion Johnson and many others whose names are unknown, but whose lives
have been taken over the course of the last several decades. The Andre House community is
heartbroken over the events of the past several weeks and we will work to stand against the
injustice and racism that exists within our community and our country.
Black lives matter and we stand in solidarity with the Black community. We grieve the senseless
deaths of George, Breonna, and Dion all who have names and stories; their lives were stolen from
their family and friends and community and they deserve to be here with us today.
For the last couple of weeks, we been reflecting on what we have witnessed: tremendous injustice at
the hands of those who we trust to protect us, the systems in place that oppress and are rooted in
systemic racism and oppression of Black and POC communities and how we can do by better by these
communities. We see the results of systemic racism in action here every single day at Andre House.
In the city of Phoenix, 6% of the population is Black. Yet over 30% of those who come to Andre
House for a meal or for clothing and a shower are Black. How is it that there is such a huge
discrepancy in these numbers?
Systemic racism is so ingrained in our society that certain people are cast out and ignored simply
because of the color of their skin. No one should have to worry about leaving their home to go for
a run, to the grocery store or to work with the thought that they are going to judged or pulled
over or killed for simply being out in public. We have a responsibility to be educated by our
Black friends and guests, to learn from them what their experiences are and change our attitudes
and beliefs to support them.
Diocese of Phoenix Bishop Olmstead says that “Racism hides itself behind indifference.”
Indifference at this time cannot be accepted. As an organization that stands in community with our
guests, we are responsible for educating ourselves about how we can do better by our community. We
are sharing our action plan to hold ourselves accountable to this pledge to do the work:
- Hold quarterly racial justice and equity workshops led by experts in the field
- Regular reflective sessions centered on issues of social injustice and systemic racism
- Developing an auxiliary board consisting of guests who can advise our community on issues
facing the homeless community - We are working to adopt a restorative rather than punitive model to take the place of
suspensions, focusing on true justice and healing for all of those harmed
Racism cannot be overcome by any one action or by the actions of one person, but rather by a collective
conversion of hearts orchestrated by the love and mercy of God. We must start with our own hearts
to learn from those who experience unjust discrimination every day of their lives. If we truly
believe we are created in the image and likeness of God, then we are responsible for expressing
this belief and standing for and with our oppressed Black and POC brethren who need our voices right now
– for George, Breonna and Dion.