In the wake of the wrongful deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, AhmaudArbery, and others, Cornerstone Credit Union League President and CEO Caroline Willard challenged her fellow credit union league presidents to support a scholarship to promote African American leaders in the credit union movement. From that challenge rose the initiative “Commitment to Change: Credit Unions Unite Against Racism.”
Spearheaded by the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), the initiative focuses on education, conversations, and investments that will move the credit union movement into a future where diversity, equity, and inclusion can thrive.
One month later, various organizations across the nation are pledging funding, in-kind support, and more to support the AACUC’s developing Diversity Equity and Inclusion Leadership Academy for Financial Professionals (DEI Academy).
“Our mission statement is to increase diversity within the credit union community through advocacy and professional development,” AACUC President and CEO Renée Sattiewhite said.“While seemingly simple, there are many layers to advocacy and professional development. We strive to be good stewards for the credit union movement and be productive corporate citizens. We also want to provide a safe space for people of color to reach their highest potential.”
AACUC’s interactive program will be offered four times a year, inviting in-depth exploration of diversity, equity, inclusion, and how to better understand the nuances of racism.
“My fellow league presidents and I wanted to create a spark for meaningful, sustainable change,” said Willard. “Pledging our support to the African-American Credit Union Coalition ensures that we are showing solidarity with Black credit union professionals in a way that will make our movement a stronger, more diverse environment.”
To learn more about the “Commitment to Change” initiative and how to get involved, please contact Renée Sattiewhite at renee@aacuc.org or visit aacuc.org.