As we reflect on the state of our nation, we are reminded of the power of words to inspire, unite, and heal. Today, we are honored to share with you an excerpt from Amanda Gorman’s inaugural poem, “The Hill We Climb.” With each line, Gorman invites us to imagine a world in which we are all seen, heard, and valued.
The Hill We Climb
When day comes we ask ourselves,
where can we find light in this never-ending shade?
The loss we carry,
a sea we must wade.
We’ve braved the belly of the beast,
We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace,
And the norms and notions
of what just is
Isn’t always just-ice.
And yet the dawn is ours
before we knew it
Somehow we do it
Somehow we’ve weathered and witnessed
A nation that isn’t broken
but simply unfinished
A New Hope
In a world that often feels dark and uncertain, these words offer a glimmer of hope and a call to action. Gorman reminds us that we have the power to shape our own destiny, to create a world that works for all of us, not just a select few.
Our Shared Responsibility
As professionals, it is our shared responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. We must work together to break down the barriers that prevent people from reaching their full potential, whether those barriers be economic, social, or cultural.
Building Bridges
We can do this by building bridges between different communities and creating spaces where people can come together to learn, share, and grow. We can use our expertise and influence to advocate for policies that promote equality and justice, both locally and globally. And we can lead by example, setting the tone for a more compassionate and inclusive society.
A Call to Action
So let us heed Amanda Gorman’s call to action and work together to build a better future for ourselves and for our children. Let us hold fast to the belief that we can, indeed, climb that hill, no matter how steep it may seem. And let us never forget the power of words to inspire, unite, and heal.