A statement on social injustice
We are shocked and deeply distressed by the brutal treatment and murder of George Floyd. And Breonna Taylor. And Ahmaud Arbery. And the countless other Black Americans killed senselessly and unjustly.
Let us be clear: Black Lives Matter. We abhor racism. We do not tolerate it. Despite all of our progress, our society still has a long way to go. Racism and inequality continue to create injustice for too many people in this world. Too many people see their lives and their opportunity threatened by the color of their skin.
At ICF, we act with integrity and condemn hatred and injustice of any kind. This is who we are and what we stand for. This company was founded not long after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and ensuing social unrest in American cities in 1968. It’s partly what motivated ICF’s founders—including Clarence “Lucky” Lester, a former Tuskegee Airman—to start a company built on the principle of creating opportunity for disadvantaged communities.
Fifty years later, ICF remains a mission-driven company filled with people who care deeply about improving lives and making the world a better place. We prize equality, opportunity and respect. Now more than ever, we are guided by our values, which celebrate diverse perspectives and voices in everything we do, emphasize integrity, collaboration and constructive dialogue, and encourage passion in our actions. Our Purpose, Mission and Values statements correspond directly with how we view the world as people, not just employees.
Over the years, we’ve been proud of the courage and strength of our community in giving back. Given recent events, ICF will match 100% of all charitable contributions made by employees to charities of their choices focused on enhancing inclusion, building strong communities, improving economic equality, and rebuilding communities.
One of the best things we can do for each other right now is be empathetic. We encourage everyone to make an extra effort to connect with those in your community; your family, friends, loved ones, neighbors, colleagues. Ask how they are doing. Listen for and to their concerns. Support each other. Show kindness and patience in your daily interactions. Even though we are physically apart, it’s more important than ever that we stay closely connected.
