The University of Nevada, Reno has released a statement in response to George Floyd's death and subsequent protests.
I can’t breathe—again
As we gathered our thoughts at having to address, once again, the reality of the brutal death of an unarmed black man, George Floyd, we must categorically condemn the racism, abuse of power and brutality that led to his death. Mr. Floyd, who pleaded repeatedly for his life—I can’t breathe—eerily evocative of the equally violent death of Eric Garner and so many other black lives, is yet another deeply troubling lost life that ought to serve as a day of reckoning for all of us. As a nation, not only have we not resolved the historically deep wounds of structural racism, inequality, injustice and violence in our country, but those divisions, dramatically intensified in recent times, significantly challenge our democracy. We know from extensive evidence that hate and racial violence have increased to frightening levels in recent years. Let us also bear witness to the fact that in a few months we will be marking the one year anniversary of the El Paso mass killings, one of the deadliest anti-Latino and anti-emigrant hate crimes of recent years; a year ago, also, the shooting in the Poway synagogue took place; increasing attacks on mosques, and many others. These sobering realities must continue guiding our educational mandate on equity and inclusion through meaningful collaborations and much needed healing. Our deepest sense of solidarity to the family of Mr. George Floyd. Our particular support goes out to our Black students, faculty and staff in these somber moments.
Sincerely,
Marc A. Johnson
President
and
Eloisa Gordon-Mora
University Diversity and Inclusion Officer
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The Washoe County School District and Nevada System of Higher Education both released statements on Sunday in response to George Floyd's death and subsequent protests.
Here is the WCSD statement, from Superintendent Dr. Kristen McNeill:
As educators, parents, and members of the Washoe County family, we know that much work lies ahead in ensuring equity, access, and inclusion for all. We are dedicated to providing our students with constructive and meaningful ways to share their views and make their voices heard. The senseless death of Mr. George Floyd continues to bring to light the disparity in treatment of people of color in our society.
The Washoe County School District will continue in its commitment to equity and culturally responsive practices, recognizing and treasuring the gifts and strengths each of our students, families, and staff bring to our district, our community, and our world. We, as a district, will not stand for discrimination towards our students, families, or staff.
Our children give us hope and encourage us to look ahead with the optimism and strength we will need to overcome the challenges that lie in our path. We will continue to work to ensure culturally responsive practices are central to our core beliefs as a school district.
Each of our children has the capacity to become a great leader and healer, and we are committed to nurturing and cherishing what they will bring to our world as they grow into adulthood and realize their potential.
“Today I am choosing to focus on the message shared by the young people at Saturday’s peaceful demonstration,” said WCSD Board President Malena Raymond. “Their voices are stronger than the images of violence and division that are circulating across our country. I believe, at times like these, we must remember that the youngest and most vulnerable members of our community are watching what we do. It is important we lead by example, accepting and valuing differences.”
“In every possible way, our children are our hope for the future,” said Superintendent Dr. Kristen McNeill. “As a school district we are working hard to ensure our educational system is based on understanding and acceptance, ensuring that everyone has a place at the table and all voices are valued and cherished. There is still much work to do, but the work will continue and we will be determined in our focus.”
The Washoe County School District will continue to listen to the voices of our students, their families, and staff members. We are committed to working together to secure the bright and promising future each of our children deserves.
Here is the NSHE statement, from Chancellor Thom Reilly:
I, like many of you, have been profoundly disturbed by the recent deaths of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery that have led to days of civil unrest.
As a nation we continue to struggle with racially motivated violence, harassment, and discrimination against our black citizens. We have also seen a rise in hate toward our Asian communities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, against our Latino and undocumented communities due to immigration issues, and our LGBTQ communities due their sexual orientation and gender identity.
We need to take time to listen more. Racism and discrimination persists because we avoid difficult conversations. But having difficult conversations both inside and outside of the classroom is what higher education is about.
We need to engage in more of these discussions on our campuses and acknowledge the deep-rooted and historical racism and discrimination that exists in our country. Education is the pathway to real and lasting change.
We can and must do better in Nevada.
NSHE reaffirms its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and the belief it makes us stronger not only as a system of higher education, but as Nevadans too.
By embracing our differences and recognizing that racial, ethnic, religious, and sexual orientation barriers still exist we will better prepare our graduates to fight the injustices that continue to plague our nation. As Chancellor of NSHE, I will continue to listen and advocate for these values.
