[5/31/2020] Statement Regarding Downtown Raleigh Demonstrations

There is no place in our community or society for systemic racism. In Raleigh, and many other cities across the country, there were peaceful demonstrations organized yesterday to honor George Floyd and protest his death at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer. These demonstrators were leading the call for action and change. Unfortunately, as day turned into night, a number of individuals began to incite violence in our city. It was upsetting to see what started as a peaceful call for reform turn to violence. Businesses throughout downtown Raleigh had their windows shattered. Thefts occurred. The damage to downtown was extensive.

We are deeply saddened by the tragedy in Minnesota and disturbed by what happened in Raleigh last night. At the same time, we are proud to see the strength and resilience of our community today. This morning, our neighbors gathered downtown, helping one another pick up the pieces. The short-term repair is just the beginning. We have to be dedicated to identifying systemic racism and building bridges toward equity.
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Violence is not the answer. We do not want to see what happened last night. We also must have honest conversations and actions to address and heal the deep divisions facing our city and nation. 
 
Adrienne Cole
President and CEO
Raleigh Chamber
 
DeLisa Alexander
Chair, Raleigh Chamber Board of Directors
Red Hat, Inc.