A message about events in Minneapolis

Dear UNCSA Community,

Our hearts and spirits are heavy as we grieve the death of George Floyd, and all other violence we have witnessed against African Americans and people of color – violence that is rooted in ignorance, racism and hate. The grief we feel is compounded by the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery in February and Breonna Taylor in March. As I write these words, cities all around our country are suffering from the latest eruption of deep, systemic problems that persist.
 
While I cannot know entirely the depth of what these recent events have meant to African Americans and people of color, I am devastated by what has happened in Minneapolis, and have struggled to find the words to express it. I condemn this act of violence against Mr. Floyd and all others like it, and share the anger, frustration and sorrow that is felt by our community. At the same time, I feel a sense of great resolve for how we all must commit ourselves to be agents for the change that must happen. With each passing day there is a more urgent need to come together against racism and hate, and in support of justice.
 
UNCSA is committed to being an inclusive community that respects, values and nurtures every one of its members. What happened last week is a stark reminder of just how much work there is to do in our country, and how far we still have to go – and that work starts right here. We all need to come together with great solidarity and listen to the members of our community and confront our own privilege and biases. We then need to acknowledge how each and every one of us can be a part of positive change and take meaningful steps to do so.
 
As we go forward, I encourage everyone to look to each other for support and do not hesitate to reach out to give and ask for help. Counselors are available to students through our Counseling Center. The after-hours Healthlink number is 1-888-267-3675. Faculty and staff may access the state’s 24/7 Employee Assistance Program administered by ComPysch by calling 888-311-4237. 

Our institution, and the entire arts world, is stronger because of its diversity. Please know that I stand in solidarity with, and as an advocate for, members of our UNCSA community affected by these painful events.

Sincerely,
 
Brian Cole
Chancellor