A. Adar Ayira is director of programs at Associated Black Charities, the region’s only African-American philanthropic organization providing coordinated leadership on issues impacting Maryland’s communities of color. Adar is also a founding member and Advisory Board Member of Baltimore Racial Justice Action, a nonprofit organization committed to social and economic transformation and equity. The opinions and views shared here are her own, and do not represent those of Associated Black Charities or Baltimore Racial Justice Action.