A note from perception institute

Dear Friends,

There are many who are very anxious about the election. We understand. The results will chart the course of our country for generations to come. And still, it is important that we breathe. Take the time to acknowledge the work you have done to help protect our democracy. Lean back into the reason you do what you do and the difference you make. It is easy to find more to do, but please take a moment to sit with the power you have used to attempt to build and not tear down. Celebrate the work. Find optimism. On Election Day, the voting will end and we will all be forced to sit and wait together with baited breath….and in those moments, we should remind ourselves of each other’s humanity and our own. We are not responsible for how others see us – we are only responsible for how we see ourselves. We see you. And your strength and tenacity is the fuel that has kept us, and will keep us moving forward. 

Our work helps to ensure a better future by helping people across all walks of life respect each other, work better together, and increase efforts to create a world in which everyone experiences dignity and belonging. The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves and each other matter. Our work is courageous because it requires truth – a thing not always found in great supply. And yet, it is the thing we need most.

We have talked with and surveyed thousands across the country in order to understand the truth of their unconscious influences and their conscious concerns. We listened and they were open. We moved from housing projects to neighborhood barbershops to the suburbs – and each group described a fear of being rejected and a desire to belong. We created brave spaces and assured participants of what we know to be true – democracy requires the voice and the vote of the people. Our disagreements should not lead to dismissals. 

No matter the outcome of the election, we stand ready to lead in charting a path forward. The fissures and divisions must be repaired. We will work to find small commonalities that can lead to big change in order to move America closer to her promise. 

No matter what happens in this election, our work continues. 

In service,

Sadiqa Reynolds

CEO