Team,
We join other voices across the country in calling for justice and expressing our sadness and anger over the death of George Floyd and the numerous other acts of racial violence that have recently occurred. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Mr. Floyd. We have a responsibility to condemn these horrific actions in the strongest terms possible. There is a great need for change in our society. Senseless acts of racism, lives lost, and brutality inflicted leave many searching for a way forward. Now, more than ever, it is critical for us to come together as a nation to reject all forms of bigotry that threaten what makes our communities great.
At Idaho State, we strive to eradicate hate, racism, and bigotry. Such ideologies are abhorrent and contemptible and do not, in any way, represent the ideals of our Bengal community. Our University values diversity and inclusion and the richness that many identities bring into our lives. More than that, at Idaho State University, we understand, respect, promote, and fight for the basic truth that EVERY person has inherent, unalienable, and equal value. We have an obligation to continue the work to ensure that our communities and our nation can uphold that truth.
Our University will always encourage respectful debate, thoughtful inquiry, and engaged citizenship. We are also equally committed to the protection of individual dignity and the free exchange of ideas. These commitments are at the core of who we are and are representative of our foundational values. Education is always central to meaningful social change. We must address the reality of racial disparity and violence nationwide.
As the leadership of Idaho State, it is our responsibility and priority to foster an inclusive environment where all Bengals feel welcomed and respected. As a community, we have the same responsibility to uphold that standard at all times.
