RE: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Response to the Murdering of Black and Brown Bodies
Dear Mavericks,
Our nation is under siege - from the coronavirus, hunger, racism, and police violence. The murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Riah Milton, and Dominique “Rem’Mie” Fells have caused tremendous pain to the families and communities touched by their lives. And until we act together, this list will continue to grow.
Each of the communities we serve is experiencing hurt, fear, agitation, and an energy to respond and act. Diversity and Inclusion shares that pain and energy. We also share your strength. Strength through the subsequent protests and marches, both local and worldwide, which demand Black Lives Matter, strength through the rallies that affirm Trans Black Lives Matter, and strength that our collective voices cannot be silenced by systemic racism and systems of oppression.
For our colleagues and students who are awakening to white supremacy and racism, we need you to personally show up. Those who have been doing antiracism work are exhausted and need you to sustain the work. We’re in this for the long haul.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion staff at Minnesota State University Mankato wants all our students to know that we see your hurt and know that you are tired of seeing the senseless murdering of our Black people, people of color, and indigenous people. You are not alone! We will continue to work with our campus partners - and greater Mankato community - to dismantle racism and White supremacy.
We love and support you in our Maverick Family. Understanding the recent events may be added trauma for people, we are here for you and to refer you to support services. We are here to help!
In solidarity,
Here are archived University Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statements
