During the recent civil unrest in Kenosha, this was a question that was posed in response to the outcry over the violent, turbulent rioting that took place.
Can you hear us now?
I have to admit this question made me pause. Made me think. It made me take measure of my white privilege and question how I was using it to make things better in my community. One answer I came up with was I work for Kenosha Human Development Services. Throughout my 27 years at KHDS, I have witnessed great works of kindness and inclusion. I’ve seen people working in all areas of Kenosha, all neighborhoods, with all people and never flinch or complain or show distain. In fact, I’ve seen workers seek out those who need the most yet who have the least. Our programs make no exceptions for race, religion, gender or economic status. We just serve. Within our walls, we have always been driven to hire the most culturally diverse staff as possible given the pool of available people at the time. As an employee, I can honestly say I have always had a sense of belonging, a sense of worth at KHDS, as, I believe, others have too.
If the measure of a person is shown in how they treat others, then it is clear that those who work at KHDS have chosen to do so because we know we can make a difference. We do hear our community and we do what we can to answer that call.
Still, there is much to be done. KHDS is just one part of a system that can address a much bigger issue in our community. We can help ease the tensions that exist by supporting our local businesses, speaking out against systemic racism, and listening to those who live with it daily. We can be there to address the mental health needs these issues bring to our community – the stress of the unrest, the fear and the depression when change is imminent.
Can you hear us now?
Yes, we can! And we will always hear you and always be here to listen, respond, and help. That’s what we do!