A Message from M&T Bank Chairman and CEO René Jones

The tragic events in Minneapolis have left so many of us feeling frustrated and vulnerable. I share your anguish and support the way you feel. I’m frustrated because this incident is part of a pattern that traces back centuries—for as long as our country has existed, people have been marginalized because of the color of their skin.

There are, unfortunately, countless incidents of injustice that have occurred across our own footprint that provide evidence of a troubling trend. What’s happening in Minneapolis now only opens wounds.

As a company, we stand in support of all people who experience hatred and violence based solely on who they are. We embrace diversity and believe in the power of inclusion. We believe that social justice isn’t the responsibility of any one person or company—it’s a goal for the world and we’re on a journey to make sure we do our part to celebrate all of the people that make up our communities.

I’m not here to suggest we have all of the answers, but I do want to say that we’re committed to leading peaceful and positive change across all of the different types of communities we serve. We’ve always believed that we have an obligation to enrich each and every one of those places and spaces—to make a difference in the lives of each and every member of our communities. Today, I’m reminded of how powerful that purpose is and how much work we have before us.

René F. Jones

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer