June 1, 2020
Dear Tulane Community:
On Saturday, I shared my despair over the recent series of injustices against African Americans, including the death of George Floyd. These tragedies remind us of the fear and inequities faced by so many.
As human beings, we must speak out against acts of violence like the one in Minneapolis and elsewhere. We also must work, peaceably and constructively, to promote a more just society that does not allow such events to ever occur in the future. We stand with the many police officers, including our own Tulane Police Chief Kirk Bouyelas, who has joined with police chiefs around the country to condemn these acts.
Watching the events of the past week unfold can make us feel helpless and hopeless. These feelings are undoubtedly compounded by our isolation and distance from one another. I encourage all of you to reach out to other members of the Tulane family to express your support for one another at this difficult time. To African American students, faculty and staff, please know how much we value and support you and how dedicated we are to making Tulane a more inclusive community for all members of the Tulane family. This family stands beside you, united in your grief and in your resolve for a better future. We have made important strides over the last few years, but we must intensify our efforts to create a campus community where all are truly supported, included and protected. Working "not for one's self, but for one's own" is our motto; it's what it means to be a Tulanian.
All societies must come to terms with how they fail to meet their highest ideals. The circumstances surrounding George Floyd's death have once again underscored how far we have to go to fulfill the promise of a more just society.
I have faith that the Tulane community, through our shared values, will rededicate its efforts to achieve those ideals. It is up to each and every one of us to keep the light of hope, compassion and humanity burning bright.
