To the Global Community at Rutgers University,
We at Rutgers Global are deeply saddened and distressed by the deplorable violence and brutality that led to the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Stephon Clark, and the untold number of black people in America that have been affected by such egregious actions. We join all who grieve these brutal, senseless deaths, which are tragic reminders of the systemic racism and violence that exist in our society and of the long journey we still face toward a fair and equitable society. To members of the black community whose lives, health, and safety are under attack, know that we stand with you.
At Rutgers University, we are committed to diversity, equity, and access, and will continue to expand upon these values. As the international unit of the University, we at Rutgers Global have been inspired by the global community’s response to these murders and their supportive chants proclaiming Black Lives Matter. We understand that all change must start from within. Therefore, we will work to identify and address institutional bias within our organization and within ourselves to improve our delivery of global education for all members of our Rutgers community, both locally and globally.
In the near future, we plan to host an online workshop on the global dimensions of the Black Lives Matter movement, and we will work with others within Rutgers to develop anti-racism education for our international community.
We resolve to take part in the creation of a better world, a world in which reason and compassion prevail over ignorance and hatred. We will speak out against violence, intolerance, racism, and systemic oppression, as we strive to foster peace and mutual understanding both locally and across the globe.
In solidarity,
The Rutgers Global Team