In the wake of the guilty verdict in the murder trial of Derek Chauvin, we must remain resolute in the pursuit of justice and racial equality. Although relieved by the verdict, on its own, it will not completely ease the pain and suffering of the Floyd family or our nation, which witnessed this callous taking of life. I know you join me in hoping that the Floyd family finds some peace and comfort in the verdict and that it helps them on their road to healing.
As a learning community, we must let this tragedy be a reminder of the work that needs to be done to put an end to systemic racism. Continued acts of violence perpetrated against African Americans and members of other communities of color are abhorrent to an institution such as ours that holds diversity, equity, and inclusion for all as core values. We must come together and continue to build and promote a more just and equitable community for all. It has been said that the price of liberty is eternal vigilance. Let us be equally vigilant in acting to create a just and equitable community, nation, and world.
By William J. Fritz
