Dear Colleagues,
I know that for many of us, it was difficult to return to work this morning following the heartbreaking acts of violence targeting members of our Black community in Buffalo, New York. This attack claimed the lives of ten people. We are also feeling the impact of the shootings against members of Asian communities in Texas and California.
These events are traumatizing, and it is important that you take care of yourself and others. It is my sincere hope that you will access University resources available to you as needed.
Many of these violent acts have clear roots in hate, bigotry, and white supremacy – something many of you in these diversity, equity, and inclusion spaces work every day to dismantle.
I am humbled that you share with us in the Office for Equity and Diversity the charge to make our campus communities one that promotes respect, autonomy, understanding, and belonging. But I am even more grateful for your care and compassion to others in our Diversity Community of Practice and DEI Systemwide Leadership Collective for times such as this.
Warmly,
Michael Goh, Vice President for Equity & Diversity
Calvin D. Phillips, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students