A message from Southern Company leadership on racial tensions across the country

The following memo was sent to all Southern Company employees on Friday, May 29.

We are saddened and dismayed by the recent events that have raised racial tensions across the country. Yet again, a great light shines on this nation’s need to improve relations throughout our society. 

With the recent highly-publicized deaths of two black men – one in Minneapolis and one in Brunswick, Georgia – it’s easy to see and feel anger and frustration. Unfortunately, our nation continues to be impacted by situations like these.  

We know that these events have angered and upset many of us. Whether it’s Minneapolis, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Gulfport, Birmingham, Chicago, Houston, or any other city, intolerance and racism have no place in our society. It represents the worst of humanity.

For Southern Company, diversity, inclusion, and acceptance of our differences are more than words. They are central to Our Values and vital to our long-standing commitment of being a citizen wherever we serve. We must live these values each and every day.

As a company, we are pledging to act. We will redouble our ongoing efforts to improve relations between all members of the communities where we live and work. Likewise, we will continue bold and honest discussions within our company about all aspects of diversity, inclusion and acceptance.

As leaders, we must continue to demonstrate this commitment through not only our words but also our actions. We demonstrate leadership during difficult times by respecting the views and voices of one another and others in our communities and we are guided, both internally and externally, by mutual respect and civility.

Everywhere we go, and in everything we do, we define our company’s character. We challenge each of you, in your own way, to lead by example. Our Values not only guide our behavior as we perform our jobs, they extend to every area of our lives. Our responsibilities within our communities bestow upon us a distinct requirement to act with a higher level of leadership, morality and conduct at all times. As a company, we have a responsibility to help find solutions to help make our communities better for every citizen.

Together, we will lead on these issues and represent the best of America. Our communities, customers and fellow employees deserve nothing less.

We are proud to be on your team.

Southern Company Management Council