Dear Southwestern community,
This is an important moment in all of our lives. We have been witnesses to loss, sickness, racial injustice, and murder over the course of the past twelve months. It was almost a year ago that we saw the life slowly being drained from George Floyd as the world watched in horror. We have all seen the videos and read about continuing acts of racially-motivated violence perpetrated against humans of color across this country. All of these events happening again and again are emotionally grueling; however, the toll of these acts on communities of color is not always apparent and is particularly devastating. It is critical for us all to learn about and to recognize these historical patterns of persistent and structural racism and to have empathy and understanding for those most affected while working to create systematic change.
This week, the jury of seven women and five men in the trial of the former Minneapolis police officer who has been charged with causing the death of George Floyd has concluded their deliberations. The testimony given at this trial has weighed heavily upon many of our Black students, alumni, staff, faculty, and friends. We are well aware that, through candid testimony given at this trial, the reactions to the jury’s decision will be diverse and will elicit strong reactions that may include grief, anxiety, fear, and anger.
In preparing for this verdict, we must continue to stand in steadfast solidarity with our communities of color. I am calling for us all to support one another in this awful time of challenge through our compassion and respect. We will move bravely and without pause into our shared future where we will all be called upon to create a stronger Southwestern that will embrace the tenets of diversity, inclusion, belonging, and equity. I am always thinking about ways that I can continue to strengthen the fabric of our community through not only my words, but through my actions. On Friday, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved a Tactical Plan that has been in development by a 20-person taskforce throughout the academic year that has DIBE and student financial access at its core. There is much work to be done and we will go there together to forge a more socially just and equitable Southwestern.
Please reach out to our students, staff, faculty, alumni, and others who may be hurting and unsure of what the future may hold. The University stands by you and is committed to providing resources to our community in times such as these and beyond. Students, please reach out to your professors, to me, to staff, student organizations, counseling services, the Office of Diversity Education, and your peers to discuss how you are feeling, to share your ideas, and to get direction on supportive resources. As always, our Student Life office has compiled
a list of referrals and support services to help guide, protect, and comfort all of you. We will be providing safe spaces for student discussions and healing, as well as opportunities for faculty and staff to do the same. We welcome input as we navigate this time and space with care and intentionality. Please monitor the campus events calendar for more information and details about events.
As we close this academic year, let us learn from all of the challenges of the past and walk into a better future as a community of learners, activists, teachers, and citizens.
Sincerely,
