We condemn racism and advocate for justice

The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities condemn the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police and the institutional racism throughout the United States that his murder represents.

Floyd’s death is another link forged in the chain of inhumane and cruel treatment of people of color. Violence and disrespect by individuals who swear to protect and serve all citizens is especially egregious. The Minneapolis officers’ blatant disregard for Floyd’s horrific suffering causes pain to us all. We mourn for his loss and grieve with his family.

Like our founder, St. Francis of Assisi, we believe that all men and women — indeed, all of creation — are our brothers and sisters. It is our mission statement to “serve all with reverence, justice and compassion.”

As a community of more than 300 sisters, we acknowledge our role in institutional racism, we ask forgiveness of our sisters and brothers of color, and we pray for our nation’s healing.

As we lament the death of George Floyd, we recommit ourselves today to work for an end to systemic racism and to advocate for social justice. We call on our family, friends and supporters to join us in this challenge. We ask God’s blessing on the struggle that lies ahead.

The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities is a congregation of more than 300 vowed women religious, with houses in Pittsburgh, Honolulu, and the New York cities of Williamsville, Syracuse, Mt. Vernon and Peekskill. The Sisters minister in health care, education and social justice in 12 states, the District of Columbia and Peru.

SISTER BARBARA JEAN

DONOVAN General Minister Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities

Syracuse, N.Y.