A Statement from Richard R. Frank, President & CEO

I cannot begin to share my sadness and anger for the senseless and unnecessary killing of George Floyd and so many others who have suffered injustice such as this, many whose names and stories we may never know. Tragedies like these continue to make it apparent that systemic discrimination and racial disparities still plague our country.

George Floyd’s death is but one part of a history of racist harassment, assault and murder that stretches back far too long in the life of our nation. His name – Ahmaud Arbery’s, Breonna Taylor’s and the list goes on – must not be forgotten. Rather, they must live on and drive us into action that, quite frankly, should have been taken long ago.

OhioGuidestone, as an organization dedicated to providing pathways for growth, achievement and lifelong success, cannot remain silent. We understand that with our mission also comes an obligation to fight ignorance and intolerance, model inclusivity and embrace the power that diversity represents. We hear the voices of those demanding change and we stand with you. I stand with you.

To our black colleagues, clients, community members, donors and friends, while my heart aches in the wake of these events, I can only imagine the trauma, pain and frustration you must be feeling at this time. I can never walk in your shoes or fully understand but I can be here for you – to listen and respond to your concerns, to use my voice to advocate for you and for a world free of discrimination, one that embraces differences and respects all individuals.

Please know that you are not alone in this. Throughout our more than 155-year history, OhioGuidestone has often been the first to step forward to work towards a solution when there is an unmet need in the communities we serve. This is no different. We will work together to be the change we want to see in our communities and in the world because in the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

Be safe and well,

Rich