The current social justice issue encompassing the nation is something that affects all of us. Coast Medical Services stands in solidarity against the injustices that are taking place across the country.

Black lives matter.

Full stop.

Black lives matter.

It is not a question or an opinion, but a fact.

Coast recognizes that we have a platform. Because we have a platform, we also recognize that we also have a responsibility to our community. It is our duty to speak up and do something. Everyone who believes that black lives matter has the same duty to bring attention to the current social justice issue and to act in a way that will bring about long-overdue chances.

Standing up and speaking out is the only way to prove that you truly believe in liberty and justice for all. At Coast, we are prepared to do that. We are fully committed to creating change in the name of acceptance and equality. Once again, we have to take action. Without actions, there can be no change for the better.

The first action that we should all perform is to listen. Pay special attention to what the voices of black people around you are saying–in the media, in the community, and in the world. More specifically, among your friends, coworkers, and family, pay heed to what black voices are trying to convey in the past, present, and about the future. Ask yourself: what are spaces and conversations in which these voices have not been heard or included, and consider why this might be the case.

Education is the next action. There are worlds of resources available that detail how our world got to where it is today. You can understand the current social justice issues so much more when you look at the past.

Another action that we can take is to give back to our communities and donate to the cause. As a starting point, Coast has donated $1,000 to Black Lives Matter to fund the movement for freedom, justice, and liberation.

We want to do more. To that end, we welcome your feedback. If you know of additional ways that Coast can positively contribute to the change, then please share your ideas with us. We are open. We are listening.

At this time, everyone at Coast also wants to extend our gratitude and thanks to all of the people who are working tirelessly on the front lines during the worldwide pandemic. Brave individuals from all backgrounds have come together and answered the call to treat patients in our communities. Your efforts are noticed and appreciated. All of you are doing your part to make the world a healthier, safer, and overall better place. We want to acknowledge your strength and your sacrifices.

It is up to all of us to represent the changes that we want to see take place in our world. That may mean donating time or money, joining peaceful protests, or focusing on educating ourselves on the history of our nation and its treatment of black people. No matter what, we cannot be silent about the current social justice issues.

Join us in standing up, speaking out, and becoming that change. When communities come together as a positive force, there is nothing that we can’t accomplish.

Thank you for all that you do. Be safe, be well, and be loud.