Dear Colleagues,
Our nation was shaken this week by the tragic death of yet another unarmed Black man, George Floyd. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, violence and the threat of violence is escalating against Black people and other communities of color in our country. I know that pain, fear, anger, and hopelessness weigh heavily on many members of our Western community.
I’m writing today to ask that we take account of this moment. Our university works within and struggles with the same white supremacist systems, structures, and conditions that undermine us all and make life in the United States dangerous and precarious for people of color.
In this moment, we can step forward by showing grace and understanding when finding ways to accommodate student needs in our classes, and by supporting members of our community experiencing trauma from these events.
Sincerely,
Jeff Young