Over the past couple of weeks, we have seen the outward manifestation of systemic trauma on a national (even global) scale. There is no other way to say it. Centuries of oppression and inequality have justifiably resulted in anger and protest as yet another innocent life was taken due to the color of his skin.
We have also seen hope rise in a way that gives me pause, and allows me to think that this time it will be different. This time, change will come. In my heart, I feel this to be true. Words I wrote privately last week reverberate in my head every day: This is the time. I can feel it in my bones.
A day or two later, I was reminded of a quote by Toni Morrison that seemed to echo what I feel to be true.
“This is precisely the time when artists go to work. There is no time for despair, no place for self-pity, no need for silence, no room for fear. We speak, we write, we do language. That is how civilizations heal.”
This is the time. This is precisely the time. IOM was founded on the basic principles of: service, authenticity, integrity, and fun. If ever there was a time for us to stand up and do our job, it is now. The work we invest in—the talent we invest in—are aligned with our principles, and share our belief that we can make a difference through producing good work that is educational, inspirational, and/or entertaining.
As we move forward, we are hopeful that the home we have created will be one that diverse voices would like to join. Indeed, we have put a call out to our family of talent to actively recruit diverse voices by sharing the company’s mission and values. We know that lasting change takes time, and we also know that the changes we make today will impact our tomorrow.
To that end, I feel it is time to return to bringing good work into the world and amplifying the voices behind it. It is time to bring hope, entertainment, opportunity, and inspiration. We will continue to listen, continue to learn, and continue to strive to improve ourselves and broaden our offerings as we move forward as a young company doing our part to, as Toni Morrison said… help this civilization heal.
– Martina, IOM Founder
August 12th, 2020 ·
Lovely. Healing is why we’re here.
Nothing is given though.
Healing is detoxing, and detoxing is, well, ouch…. there’s the vomit and the bodily expulsion of the poison.
I do agree the time is now and it’s going to get pretty tough. Organisms that live on a host do not give up the fight easily and I agree 100 percent that the brave soldiers of compassion must unite and get louder and clearer in their intent.
I love your words and your mission. I like that play is one of your principles. 🙂
August 14th, 2020 ·
Aw, thank you, Pam – we love that play is part of our philosophy, too. It’s integral to the human spirit, don’t you think? (You made us giggle with your “ouch…” comment. Too true!)