We have been thinking and talking about racism – and the many other related forms of injustice – for a long time. Between the two of us, we have trained thousands of people, advocated for dozens of legislative and policy changes, and engaged the day-to-day difficult conversations and challenging actions that are necessary for eradicating racism and ensuring justice. And in 2020, like many others, we knew that this was not enough. While we each had professional and personal opportunities to do this work, we realized we needed more community, the kind of community that builds meaningful relationship across our differences and shows the world what is possible. The kind of community that activates the genius inside every girl and women so that the sisterhood can lead the way through the changes that are now ours to make. The kind of community that invites men and boys into partnership with us so that the leadership of women and girls is honored, supported and actualized.

We are creating STAR as the place we need for our own empowerment – and as the place to empower the changes this world needs. We invite you to bring your STARpower and help us eradicate racism, ensure justice, and realize the power of our differences.

Dr. Pearlette Ramos and Dr. Diana Kardia STAR Cofounders