CUNA President/CEO reacted to the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent nationwide unrest Monday:

“George Floyd’s death at the hands of a police officer has sparked civil unrest across our nation as Americans grapple with pain, fear and anger following this unspeakable tragedy. We are calling on the unified voice of the credit union movement to reject apathy and choose empathy as we rally against systemic racism directed toward the African American community.

“CUNA is committed to being a catalyst for change and advocates against social injustice. As member-owned financial cooperatives with the philosophy of ‘people helping people,’ credit unions are uniquely positioned to lead the financial services industry down the path of financial inclusion — a vital gateway to breaking down socioeconomic barriers that divide our country.”

On his LinkedIn account, Nussle expanded on his statement in a video that expresses his anger, sadness, and shame at the injustice that has affected the African American community for more than 400 years, and looks at what he, CUNA, and the credit union movement can do to effect change through the “people helping people” mission.

 “As sponsors of the people helping people philosophy, we can’t be silent when there’s such agony and frustration and injustice.  ‘People helping people’ is inclusive; an industry-wide mission that is rooted in compassion for all people.”

He goes on to encourage introspection and cooperation: “What can our credit union do at a time like this? How can we be an ally to the African American community and to truly help end racism in America? ...I promise you that your Credit Union National Association will do its part to be that voice for the voiceless.”

Last September, the CUNA board formally adopted diversity, equity and inclusion as a cooperative principle, and the organization continues to work with stakeholders to create meaningful change among the credit union movement.