The circumstances surrounding the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis have shocked our collective moral consciousness. Tragically, this is not the first such incident. The callous disregard for human life must be addressed and the individuals responsible prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
We all must commit to addressing systemic racial bias wherever and whenever we encounter it. The protests over the last week are legitimate efforts to raise awareness and are an important part of the process for demanding change. The incidents of violence and destruction should not distract from the voices pleading to be heard and the importance of the message for change across our society.
We cannot abide by a society that condones or accepts aggression or such brutal acts of inhumanity. And, we cannot turn a blind eye to the countless examples of bias that exist. Together, we must be a force for driving the accountability and change that we need to see in our society, both within and outside our company.
AbbVie is committed to advancing racial equality, through our continued growth and acceptance of each other, our way of doing business, our attraction and development of talent, and our service to the community. But, we know that there is more to be done, and we are committed to listening and working toward real, lasting and meaningful change.