August 2025

“If you surrendered to the air, you could ride it.”

-Toni Morrison, Song of Solomon

Life happens whether we want it or not, expect it or not, dread it or not.  Tragedy struck home and I have no words but to share what I wrote to our board members:

Sarah Joo, the most beloved mother of Sam Joo, passed away on Wednesday, July 2nd.  She was first and foremost a feisty prayer warrior who loved God.  The best way she believed she could protect herself and her family was clinging to a deity that was powerful and all-loving.  Because of the ways in which her body was violated, abused, and taken advantage of, she wanted to protect anyone who was alone or vulnerable to the cruelty of the world.  She was not only a matriarch to our family, our extended family, but a larger community.

When she passed, she was completely surrounded by all her children, her grandchildren, and extended family. She died peacefully, lovingly. Now, she can flutter away into God's embrace and walk hand-in-hand with my father, singing, giggling, and smiling in the heavens.

My mom was more than my mother, she was my inspiration, mentor, and soulmate.

Sarang hae, umma!

Platform will continue to hold its programs as its leaders step up for me while I try to make sense of my new normal.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sam Joo

CEO and Founder

July 31, 2025