CUNA Board Says the ‘Time is Now to Do More’ in Fight Against Racism

The CUNA Board of Directors passed a resolution on Thursday to publicly acknowledge its stand against structural racism.

According to an announcement by CUNA, the Board has committed to “creating a pathway to change within the credit union system.”

The resolution directs CUNA to work with credit union system partners to create measurable ways that the organization can commit to action by August 10.

“The CUNA Board took an important first step today to reinforce and proclaim its stance that supporting members of our community and families who have been marginalized and agonized by racism is a top priority for CUNA and the Credit Union Movement,” said CUNA Board Chair and President/CEO of Northwest Credit Union Association Troy Stang.

The resolution followed CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle’s announcement earlier in the week that the organization would be an advocate against social injustice.

“Given CUNA’s leadership role within the credit union movement, it is far past time that we speak out and support efforts to break down the systems that enable racism. We look forward to working with the Leagues and system partners, including the African American Credit Union Coalition, to deliver meaningful change in the credit union system and — most importantly — the lives of credit union members,” he said.

According to information from CUNA, the resolution set out expectations for the credit union system to:

• Recognize the historic, systemic, and institutional racism toward black people and black communities;
• Stand against racism and discrimination;
• Be made up of employers that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, where employees feel valued, safe, included, respected, and justly treated regardless of their racial identity; and
• Be unwavering in its commitment to deepen and support black and other historically marginalized communities by promoting financial inclusion, equity, and economic opportunity, recognizing the mission of “people helping people” and the Movement’s unique position to be a catalyst for change.

Many credit union organizations and leaders have spoken out in the days since the death of George Floyd and protests that have followed around the country.

Stang said, “The time is now to do more and to be intentional about our words and our actions to advance our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Credit unions are founded on the ‘People Helping People’ principle and make a positive difference in the lives of millions of members every day. We are committed to listening to African American voices, learning from their experiences, and taking immediate action to be a part of positive change in our country and at home.”