We believe the lives of all Alexandrians will improve when every Alexandrian can live fully. ACT for Alexandria’s intentional, purposeful action strives to build a community where every resident, regardless of skin color, ethnicity, or citizenship status, has an equal opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential.
ACT’s guiding belief that the lives of all Alexandrians improve when people of color are able to live fully, form the foundation of our unwavering commitment to racial equity. In our work, we actively listen to and learn from our neighbors, bridge divides that separate us, and tackle complex challenges in partnership with our community.
Our Context
Today, the city of Alexandria, a community of over 160,000 residents, is home to a wonderfully rich diversity of races, ethnicities, identities, abilities, and backgrounds. But, because of systemic and institutional barriers, not all members of our community have the same opportunities to thrive. Compared to their white counterparts, other groups are more likely to experience housing instability, food insecurity, and have worse health outcomes.
Our Commitment
ACT commits to amplifying community voices that represent the diversity of Alexandria. By bringing people together, we strive to build systems where people most affected by institutional barriers not only have a voice but hold decision-making power in shaping solutions that directly impact their lives. Our work, grounded in deep listening, trust-building, and unified action, inspires greater collective economic well-being and belonging for all Alexandrians.
ACT advances racial equity by:
- Leveraging our power and influence as a convener to bring together diverse voices and resources to understand community needs and develop solutions.
- Taking responsibility for learning about and understanding how systemic and institutional racism impacts our community.
- Investing resources in community leaders and programs prioritized by those most impacted by systemic racism.
- Examining how our organization perpetuates racism, bias, and discrimination at interpersonal, institutional, and systemic levels, then changing our behaviors, practices, and policies accordingly.
Together, we unleash our collective power to dismantle systemic inequities and celebrate the rich diversity of Alexandrians. We look forward to working in partnership with you.
If you have thoughts or comments about this statement or ACT’s work to support a racially equitable Alexandria, please contact us.
Resources & References