Change is hard. Forward progress is even harder.
Whether it is a diet on a personal level, an organization hitting specific goals, or an entire city overcoming adversity, resistance is the norm. We shouldn’t be surprised. At the same time, what keeps us engaged is knowing that success is possible. Others have lost weight. Goals are met, and adversity is overcome. It takes work and effort, but nothing has to stay the same.
For the last four years, I have had the privilege of leading a “little” movement to unite our city. I remember making the pitch to bring an event downtown that would bring healing from the past, honor in the present, and hope for the future. We had not even had our first event. The business and non-profit leaders in the room would have to close their eyes and imagine the vision that was being cast. There were no metrics, historical data, or dollars, for that matter.
But Memphians caught a glimpse of what could be and should be.
Memphis is in the process of turning this heartbeat of unity into what MUST be. At our 2024 Unite Memphis event, Memphis showed up and, with 43% growth, proved that while Memphis has its challenges, they will not define us, and we will define a new future together that celebrates every person in this city. News reports usually focus on the 1% of people tearing our city down. Unite Memphis is here to collect the 99% and become a force for good.
As an organization with a heart to “Educate and Elevate,” National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM) has been a city partner since day one. Following our 2024 event, the Museum approached Unite Memphis about building a strategic partnership. What an incredible picture of unity we are creating. Originally known as Race for Reconciliation, the movement is expanding beyond a walk or run, so with our eyes set on the future, we rebranded and have begun taking steps to bring the heartbeat of unity to other areas in addition to fitness and sports. With the added strength of the NCRM’s commitment to choosing community and desire to help Memphis become the best version of itself, we are convinced that Memphis can lead the way in showing cities around this country that unity is possible.
Memphis is big enough that when something happens here, it makes the news. It is also small enough that we can genuinely move the needle for good. As we head into our 4th Unite Memphis event on Labor Day this year, it is also 901 Day, which is on point. Come celebrate our city with your friends, family, and co-workers and get a glimpse of its preferred future – that you are helping make when you walk or run.
To register, create a team, or learn more, go to unitememphis.com.
This blog was written by Karin Conlee
Karin Conlee is the CEO of Unite Memphis. She has lived in Memphis for over 30 years and loves her city, the Tigers, and chocolate chip cookies.
