The tragic death of George Floyd and the death of many other Black people at the hands of law enforcement underscores the extent to which the Black community continues to be disproportionately impacted by police brutality and systemic racism.

A festering wound has been ripped wide open. The wave of outrage and revulsion that has followed Mr. Floyd's killing is a clear reflection of the absence of palpable progress being made in eliminating institutionalized violence against people of color.

The board of directors of the South Palm Beach County Bar Association fully stands with the Black community in condemning the racism laid bare by this injustice. We strongly deplore the unjustified use of excessive force by law enforcement against members of the Black community. We vigorously condemn discrimination and prejudice in all its insidious forms against people of color.

Fighting racism, healing the divides and restoring trust in our institutions requires more than a statement like this or one-time action; it demands ongoing commitment and hard work. Each of us must be willing to challenge ourselves and do much better.

The SPBCBA will do its part in seeking to foster a more equitable and inclusive society, including but not limited to educating our community on racial bias, the importance of having an environment which fosters diversity and inclusion and other substantive events that promote equality and justice.

Despite this recent injustice, we still believe in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream that one day, hopefully soon, people will be judged not by "the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."

We urge you to look to see where you can make a difference to support the eradication of race discrimination that continues to plague our country and take action.

Please consider supporting, volunteering or donating to organizations that protect the rights of marginalized community members. Each and every one of us has the ability to effect change and make an immediate impact.

Thank you in anticipation of your support.

Board of directors

South Palm Beach County Bar Association