Statement on #BlackLivesMatter Movement 2021

The Mahmoud S Taman Foundation stands in support of the Black Lives Matter movement around the country and around the world. We denounce state-sanctioned violence, white supremacy, and the racist belief systems that have been with us throughout our nation’s history. These structures are the reasons for the disparate impact upon Black Americans and other People of Color. It is time to correct these injustices. 

Racism and human bigotry throughout human history can only thrive in power imbalances within and among individuals, groups, and societies. The United States is burdened with centuries-old maldistribution of resources and of opportunities for the sociopolitical and economic empowerment of Black Americans. While the great American experiment has benefited all Americans throughout its evolution, the empowerment of Black communities has fallen short of the promise of equality for all.  

It is time to acknowledge that our structural racism has disproportionately affected Black communities because of the lack of equal educational opportunities and gross disparities of funding. We hold that education is a Fundamental Right under the United States Constitution and schools should be funded equally and fairly. Our criminal justice system, in hand with over-policing, incarcerates Black people at rates disproportional to others, robbing Black communities of children and parents, and must be reformed. The correctional system must also be overhauled to properly address the needs of people with mental health concerns and addictions.  

We believe that our differences must be cherished and celebrated as we all are blessed by God. The next step forward in creating a just society is to address these historically disenfranchised groups with fair and equitable policies and laws. Taxpayer dollars need to be redirected towards communities, education, and health. In 2021, the Foundation plans to provide grants to support communities and individuals in initiatives that address racism. If you have an initiative, please apply on our website. #BlackLivesMatter