Black Lives Matter: A Message from our CEO & Co-Founder, Dan Kenary
June 1, 2020
To our community,
I want to take a moment to express my anger and disgust at the situation we find ourselves in yet again where another Black American has lost their life at the hands of a law enforcement officer. That this continues to go on is outrageous and unacceptable. While I will never condone looting or violence, I can certainly understand the rage and impatience of those who are sick and tired of having to explain to their kids why they have to be extra careful dealing with police because of the color of their skin. And this problem is systemic and widespread—much bigger than any one institution.
Those of us with privilege – and I am front and center here as a middle-aged straight white man – need to do what we can to join in and amplify the voices that are trying to bring about change. Change will come, but not if those in positions of leadership within our community stay silent.
We founded this brewery with the hope that it could act as a community center, where people of all backgrounds, races, and beliefs could gather and bond over a shared love of beer and the simple joy of being together. As an influential business with a wide audience, we have a responsibility to speak out on racial injustice. To stay silent at this point is just not acceptable.
I firmly believe that we live in the greatest country in history, but the stain of racism is our nation’s original sin and it will not be excised until every single one of us, no matter the color of our skin, takes a stand to support equality and justice for all— every day and in every circumstance.
Enough is enough. Black lives matter.
It’s only by speaking up, taking action and standing together that we’ll be able to chart a new course.
Stay strong and stay safe.
Dan Kenary,
Co-Founder & CEO, Mass. Bay Brewing Company
