The following message was sent to students on April 19 from President Driscoll.
Earlier today, the jury in the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin began its deliberations to reach a verdict. No matter the result, we can all agree that George Floyd's death was horrific and tragic.
I know that many of you are in deep pain, sometimes mixed with anger and fear. Please know that you aren't alone. The trial, and the reports of new examples of brutality and injustice, especially when perpetrated against people of color and by those who are supposed to protect us, have again filled me with grief. I expect that each of us experiences the pain, anger, and fear in different ways. The years of hate and violence seem too much to bear.
I know that we can come together in caring for one another, and I want you to know that, too. We are here, together, to help manage what each of us is feeling by talking, listening, and working with one another.
Last week, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer and Title IX Coordinator Elise Glenn wrote to students with suggestions for self-care and with information about programs being offered by the Frederick Douglass Institute Collaborative about racism, including a special Community Healing Space set for Friday, April 23, at 1:00 p.m.
On the day the verdict is announced, the Center for Multicultural Student Leadership and Engagement and the Office of Social Equity and Title IX will host a program in which students can come together. There will be additional opportunities after that event for you to express your thoughts and feelings and for you to get support. We will keep you informed about these and other related events.
The days and weeks ahead will continue to be difficult for each of us. A verdict will soon be reached in the trial. But sadly, that will not be the end. Our hearts will continue to ache. New trials will also come, but we are in this together, and we will get through them together.
Michael A. Driscoll
President