The American Staffing Association and its members share the grief, the pain, and the anger felt by so many Americans following the tragic killings of George Floyd and countless other African-Americans in a pattern that has gone on far too long. Brutality and racism have no place in America, or anywhere else in the world.

Things must change, and we must all be part of that change—in the home, at work, and in the communities in which we live. Being able to live without fear and being treated with dignity, decency, and respect are fundamental human rights.

As the employers of 16 million individuals annually of all races, ethnicities, genders, religions, sexual orientations, nationalities, and backgrounds, the staffing industry is committed to continuing to promote inclusion; diversity; and fair, unbiased opportunities for all American workers. And ASA supports the efforts of those who seek to raise awareness and achieve reforms that can lead to a society where all persons are truly treated equally, impartially, without prejudice or discrimination.

America needs to come together. America needs to change. America needs to heal. With the support and guidance of the ASA inclusion, diversity, equity, and advocacy (IDEA) group and its board of directors, the association is committed to working with business and community leaders as well as government officials to be part of the dialogue to end systemic racism and support sustainable change, unity, and equity for all.

Richard Wahlquist
President and Chief Executive Officer