11/06/2020
BLACK LIVES MATTER. And, for those of you in the back row, BLACK LIVES MATTER. Unequivocally.
We don't have words for these times that are unprecedented in (most of) our lifetime. As we enter a re-building period for our industry, and many of us are facing the uncertainty of returning to our positions and professions, there is also a major movement, bigger than any one of us. And, all of us can step up in this moment, and all those moments following, to have an impact and a voice. Act.
We choose to stand up and support, lead with love and kindness. But, also know that there is impetus to protest and take action.
We have been listening to the voices of those that have been silenced. This is our time to be humble, intent and respectful. And, this is now the time for amplification, recognition, discussion. Straight on discuss inequality and inequity - squarely face up to systemic racism. We see and recognize the pain, suffering and frustration.
We have lived in the world the way it is / was, and, we will work to make the world the way we need it to be. Now. Right now, we need to shout out, as loud as we can, that Black Lives Matter. Please know that we stand in solidarity, support and will not be silent. We believe that our current economic, social and political system is a legacy of slavery and colonialism, unjust privilege. It has divided our communities and destroyed lives. Commodity has been built upon bodies, primarily black and brown, with the riches and enrichment flowing out of and beyond the communities that were taken advantage of. Let us push forward into the change. Use your power for good.
As we continue to offer content, resources, and engagement, we will be actively pursuing ways in which to amplify and align with the black owned community of sommeliers, winemakers, restaurant owners, etc. Give funds where we can, opportunities. We can all do better, be better, listen more. Walk, kneel or educate, donate.
If you have something to say, a question, feedback, additional resources - anything - do let us know. We are listening. We have action to take.
- We commit to participating in education and training with topics of inclusion, diversity and equity. This includes understanding and seeing the way that racism historically and presently shapes our industry and community.
- We will ensure there is representation in education, tasting, programs and partnership.
- We will amplify voices and maintain and utilize a list of minority-owned businesses.
- We will learn and grow.
- Here is a list of resources (not exhaustive) ... a place to start.
Donate locally here:
Assata's Daughters
Chicago Community Bond Fund
https://www.obama.org/
https://www.blacklivesmatterchicago.com/donate/
https://www.formyblock.org/donate
Follow here on Instagram: and keep following
Read here: and keep reading....
https://travelnoire.com/black-sommelier-changing-narrative-around-wine
https://www.forbes.com/sites/theworldwineguys/2020/06/08/does-the-wine-industry-have-a-racism-problem/
https://daily.sevenfifty.com/being-black-in-the-white-world-of-wine/?fbclid=IwAR0rloQ5skg5q3RRFynxOMUHazO2JKMgaP__vW6hrWclDNAhoa8vcLzYqJA
https://vinepair.com/articles/how-the-netflix-film-uncorked-breaks-new-ground-for-black-wine-drinkers/
https://nmaahc.si.edu/about/news/national-museum-african-american-history-and-culture-releases-talking-about-race-web
Spend your $ in Chicago here:
http://www.semicolonchi.com/
https://blackownedchicago.com/
https://secretchicago.com/black-owned-restaurants-chicago/
https://blockclubchicago.org/2020/06/10/heres-how-to-support-black-owned-businesses-in-uptown-and-rogers-park/
In Solidarity and Community,
Second City Sommeliers
[2020 SCS Board Members - Anthony Minne | Daniel Pilkey | Dustin Chabert | Greg Spalding | James Bube, MS | Katie Espinosa | Mark Maruszak | Rachel Speckan | Rebekah Mahru]
