I know all of us have been absolutely appalled at what we are seeing across the United States in many of our cities. As we have been digging deep as a nation to try and get a handle on the pandemic gripping the world, the vast underlying racism that permeates our society is a more enduring scourge we all face.

It’s hard for me to opine on the issue. As a white man of a certain age, I know I have benefitted from the too often unnoticed privilege that was laid before me, whether consciously or not.  And, as the father of two young men, I certainly do worry about their future; but I have never had to worry on a daily basis that my sons might not be safe due to the color of their skin. That is a situation that no human should ever need to endure. I too often take for granted living here in Vermont which is its own little bubble of serenity – a bubble that often hides from view the systemic racism in our state and the U.S.

As risk management professionals grappling with the impacts of the COVID-19 virus among a number of other issues facing our organizations, let us be aware of the risk facing so many among us, day in and day out.  Addressing it honestly and working for change is the only way forward for our nation.

Rich Smith
VCIA President