A Letter from our CEO, Mark Ryle:
The day has been heavy, following the tragedy in Orlando on Sunday. I believe my faith is deep, but am thrown by such hatred and violence against something as simple as who and how we love. We at Project Open Hand are born of the movement for equality, freedom and dignity, and we stand proudly and firmly resolved to continue.
Since we began our work during the AIDS crisis in 1985, our mission has been deeply rooted in the LGBTQ community, helping to care for the sick and mourn the many losses during that dark period in American history.
Today, we mourn with those who have been affected by the tragedy in Orlando, and continue to support the needs of LGBTQ neighbors in the Bay Area with our core values of love, compassion, service and community. Throughout San Francisco and Alameda counties, we serve thousands of meals to the critically ill every day, 61% of whom are living with HIV/AIDS.
Although burdened with a profound sadness, Project Open Hand looks forward to marching in solidarity in the Pride Parade, Dyke March and Trans March during this year’s San Francisco Pride Weekend.
I get some help in understanding these brutal and senseless events by reading Maya Angelou’s poem Still I Rise. I encourage you to take a minute and watch her read this inspiring piece.
Be careful, hug the ones you love and rise again.