Dear My Friend's Place Community Members,

Like so many of you, we are outraged by the continued racism and violence affecting black people here in Los Angeles and across the country. My Friend’s Place stands in solidarity with Black Lives Matter and all who engage in the peaceful rebellion seeking an end to violence, systemic and institutionalized racism and widespread inequities that leave us a weaker, less humane nation. 

My Friend’s Place condemns racism. We acknowledge that racism is ingrained in our society and that we must be vigilant in our commitment to unlearn and dismantle racism and its impact on our staff, our young people, our community and the issue of homelessness. We join others in calling for justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade, Nina Pop and the countless other people of color whose murders and attacks have gone unreported by the media and/or ignored by the public. 

As an organization, My Friend's Place will continue to create opportunities and connections for black youth and young adults to thrive and to be seen in their full humanity.  We remain more committed to this goal than ever before, while recognizing that we can only achieve such equity when racism and violence are denounced. The devastating impact of systemic injustice and institutionalized racism can no longer be denied, ignored or excused.