06/02/2020
The Blackout social media movement is an initiative started by the music industry to identify with protests against racism and police violence. Regardless of our individual political leanings, we are confident that no one at S.L. Nusbaum is in favor of either and all would agree that both racism and violence are wrong. Whatever we do or don’t do (or say) will be interpreted. Silence will be interpreted by some as either indifference (in the best case) or identification with (in the worst case) systemic and institution racism. In other words, one cannot avoid the issue with silence. Silence will be “heard” by many.
We do not condone violence, looting, the destruction of property and we value and appreciate the many good and dedicated law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect us all.
By posting the blackout black square today, S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co. is acknowledging that despite progress for racial justice and equality, there is still a long way to go. We are acknowledging that problems exist which cause pain and suffering, that limit opportunities and that can boil over into violence and civil unrest if ignored. Therefore, we cannot not ignore it. The blackout post is a small message that those who actually are, or who believe they are, at the wrong end of injustice are acknowledged, recognized and heard.
It is also a reminder to all of us that we are committed to the spirit and ideals of fair housing, equal employment opportunities and justice for all.
