Like many of you, we have spent some time processing the events that have forced the world to once again evaluate how we can help ensure equal rights, opportunity, liberty, and justice for all people. We assure those of you who feel grief, pain, anger, sadness, and fear…you are not alone. 

We recognize the struggle of Black people and African Americans when it comes to enjoying the basic rights that many take for granted every day, and want to share how OpenNode plans to demonstrate our commitment to progress and change.

For 12 months starting June 26, 2020, OpenNode is offering FREE payment processing to:

• all black-owned businesses, organizations, and nonprofits globally
• organizations providing material support to the Black Lives Matter movement

We announce this initiative in part as an invitation to other businesses around the world to put their money where their social responsibility talk is, and to reach out to and support the Black community. 

OpenNode’s mission is to empower individuals and connect the world through trusted digital payment infrastructure. We believe in the promise of bitcoin as a currency that enables access, freedom, privacy and sovereignty. We are working tirelessly to build a bridge to a more fairly distributed tomorrow. In the short term, this includes directly helping those who are penalized or marginalized because of the color of their skin.

We know that our initiative alone is not going to change the world, but it’s a start and we hope that it will encourage others to contribute and participate. The work of social progress is long and difficult. We may sometimes feel like we are at a standstill or even regressing. But we must stay strong in the face of controversy and adversity and continue to fight for a better future for everyone. Together we can build a better, more inclusive, and more just society. 

For OpenNode, this is only the beginning. As we grow, we will continue to focus on diversity, and our hiring will reflect our commitment. We are also eager to continue combating the systemic oppression that plagues so many marginalized groups and individuals. We will work with and reach out to organizations to support worthy causes, and provide a resilient platform to accept Bitcoin payments and donations.

Many organizations across the US are currently supporting protests and calls for justice and equality for the Black community. Check out these sources for more information on how to help:

• Black Lives Matter
• Organizations supporting the BLM movement

Finally, we offer our most sincere condolences to the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmad Arbery, and others who have suffered the cruel and unnecessary loss of a loved one at the hands of a state that is meant to serve and protect all. In this difficult time, let’s continue to support each other – and our Black brothers and sisters – on the journey towards a brighter future.

— Afnan & the OpenNode team