About the Eracism Foundation, Inc.
Eracism Foundation Background:
Eracism Foundation Inc. is a 501c3 Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation that was founded on January 5, 2006 by Oscar Winning Actor Louis Gossett Jr., who upon envisioning the organization, has committed the last quadrant of his life to an all out conscious offensive against racism, violence, and ignorance relative to the role and significance of history in positioning individuals and collective communities for the future.
Mission:
Our mission is to eradicate the systematic impacts of all forms of racism by providing programs that foster cultural diversity, historical enrichment, education, and antiviolence initiatives.
Vision:
The organization is grounded in its vision to contribute to the betterment of our society by addressing the negative impacts of racism therein. By addressing these issues, connecting individuals to their history/culture, and empowering them with the appropriate educational and training resources available in our programs, we will position the recipients of these services to improve the quality of life in their respective communities. It is our belief that through this vital connection to such services and a connection to their past, individuals will be better equipped to embark on a positive future for the benefit of their collective communities in the process
Position:
Our position is to serve as a vital resource between communities impacted by violence and their access to the tools necessary to improve their current circumstances:
Engaging youth involved in gang activity with a series of intensive antiviolence camp initiatives and forums designed to promote peace, antiviolence, personal responsibility, and re-entry into positive, productive citizenship.
Educating the community through after school programs focusing on mentoring and tutorial services to nurture the academic and professional development of children from diverse communities.
Historically enriching the community and promoting diversity through a series of documentaries, psychodramas, plays, and interactive videos addressing the historical contributions and current relevance of these efforts in improving the quality of life among today’s youth and adults alike.
Words To Think On
Motivation— Carleen Brice, Walk Tall
What motivates us? What drives our actions? Often, we give one reason for our behavior when it is really something else. Too many people just accept their lot in life and don’t ask questions. But, without awareness of the cause, it’s impossible to change the effect. To heal and grow, we must review our motives and ask ourselves why we really do the things we do.
Here are some examples: A mother keeps her child close to her, saying it’s for his protection and that she loves him. Perhaps the truth is that she feels lonely. A man avoids commitment, saying there are too many available women to devote himself to only one. Perhaps he’s really afraid of being abandoned.
It’s typical for children to respond with “I don’t know,” when asked why they left their little brother at the playground or tied the cat’s tail to a chair. If we encourage them to be honest about their feelings, they’ll tell us the real reason why they do such things. Giving them space to share their jealousy and anger will help them know and understand themselves as they grow. It will help them become complete adults.
Today, let’s take the time to learn what motivates our behavior. It will mean all the difference in the final outcome.
I am motivated by healthy, loving principles.