The recent massacre at the Orlando, Florida nightclub was a monstrous crime against humanity – whether motivated by terrorist ideology, or hatred of the LGBT community. Mere words cannot adequately express the depth of the sadness, loss, anger and utter frustration that we feel upon witnessing such a barbaric, senseless act of violence. As President Obama stated, a crime against one American because of his/her sexual orientation, race, color, gender, religion, or other defining characteristic is a crime against every American. At the center of it, we are all human beings. We at MGM Resorts mourn the incredible loss of life, value and contribution that each victim represented to our human family and the Orlando community, and we extend deepest condolences and solidarity to their families, friends and the Orlando community.
This massacre is another grim reminder of the costly human toll taken by the poison of bigotry, intolerance and hatred. It is at the same time a stark lesson in why the values of diversity and inclusion must be a part of the basic covenant that binds all of humanity. This is fundamentally important to our company, our society and our world, and the survival of human civilization.
Regrettably, we cannot change the past dark deeds of terrorists such as the Orlando shooter, but we have the power, and I would submit, the obligation – individually and collectively – to work as hard and long as we can to practice positive inclusion in our actions and our environment. This is the only way we can succeed in defeating the destructive mindsets, attitudes and voices of bigotry and intolerance. Imagine the conquering power of the good and the positive that we can bring to bear on our community and our society if we all practice positive inclusion as a daily way of life! This is within the grasp and the ability of each and every one of us – regardless of job position or title – each and every day.
Phyllis A. James is Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer for MGM Resorts International.