One year ago, George Floyd was murdered. This tragic event forced us to acknowledge the reality of racism in our country and its impacts. While last month’s guilty verdict against the police officer who killed Mr. Floyd brought a small measure of justice, tragically, there has been and continues to be violence and aggression against the Black community. We know this time has been difficult for many in our Tyson community, especially our Black team members, and we continue to pledge our support for you and the work toward racial justice. 

These words are important, but they are not enough without the actions to support them. Last year, we committed to do our part in the work to reach a more free and just society. As part of our commitment to Equity, Inclusion and Diversity, Tyson pledged to donate $5 million over three years to organizations such as the Equal Justice Initiative, The Executive Leadership Council and the National Urban League. We’re proud to say we have made significant strides toward those commitments, having donated more than $3 million thus far, funding that has gone to the important work of providing economic empowerment, improving educational opportunities and protecting civil rights for the underserved in America.

We believe in the ideals of this country—that all people are created equal and should be treated that way. Inclusion and diversity are central to our core values, and we are taking this moment to recommit ourselves to those guiding principles. We are committed to honoring equality within our own walls, and we have taken steps to celebrate and uplift people from all backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, Asian-American and Pacific Islander team members. Everyone is valued and appreciated for their contributions to our company. 

We must never forget what happened last year. We hope that one day we will not need to mark such sad and upsetting occasions. The best way Tyson can honor the memory of George Floyd and other Black Americans who have had their lives taken from them, is by working toward a future where everyone is safe and treated with dignity and compassion. Diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and we will continue to strive for a more equal and just society.