Message from the Vice Provost - One Year Later: Reflecting on Social Justice Resources at KU

One Year Later: Reflecting on Social Justice Resources at KU

Dear, students, staff and faculty -

Earlier this week, our nation observed one year since the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. His death sparked local, national, and international conversations about racism, justice and injustice, policing, righteous protest and public discourse. These topics continue to weigh heavily on members of the Jayhawk community.

For many Black people in our community, the past 12 months have been marred by a series of emotional traumas. For others, the year has challenged their beliefs in the tenets underlying our various governmental systems.

It has been a hard year. The Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging and our leaders throughout units across campus are working to support our community as a whole and the Black community especially. We are also working to broaden enlightenment and engagement on these critical topics. As challenging as it might be, we cannot allow the events of the past 12 months to impair our growth as individuals or as a community. We must persevere. We must do our part to make our community better for all members of society.

George Floyd Inaugural Remembrance

On May 25, people across the world commemorated the one-year anniversary of the death of George Floyd. This has been a time to remember all the lives lost or harmed as a result of police violence. Visit the George Floyd Memorial Foundation website to engage with the foundation’s work which honors Floyd’s life and legacy.

Day of Reflection

I have called for Friday, June 18, to be a campus-wide Day of Reflection. As many know, June 19 – Juneteenth – is regarded as a Liberation Day for Black Americans. It is the day in 1865 that former slaves learned of their emancipation two-and-a-half years earlier during the American Civil War. This coming June 18, I invite everyone in our community to reflect on this fact of our American history and consider joining in various activities. Learn more: Juneteenth at KU.

Survival, Wellness and Ally Resources

Our mandate to care for others continues throughout the summer months. As we work to address the needs of all underrepresented members of our community, we see a particular need to support Black members of our campus. Our team encourages you to explore Academics for Black Survival and Wellness resources that include workshops for the restoration of Black folks. We recognize there are many others who are ready to channel their energy to bring positive change for our Black colleagues and students. There are a variety of resources available for allies as well.

DEIB Book Club Kits

Self-education is a critical component in personal growth, yet it doesn’t have to happen in isolation. We are launching READ Book Club Kits that are a great way to stay engaged and connected during the summer months. Departments and offices can check out copies of selected titles to read and discuss with their colleagues. Current titles include “Just Mercy,” “So You Want to Talk About Race,” and “How to Be an Antiracist.” The selection will grow in the year ahead, and we welcome your input.

Resources for All

There are many other needs and concerns that I haven’t addressed here that I hope to address in future campus messages. Until then, please remember to reach out to this office if you need assistance or have ideas that can improve our campus environment. We also coordinate with numerous campus offices and organizations to ensure resources are available for everyone. University Resources

As Jayhawks, I invite us to commit to supporting those in our community who are the most vulnerable and underrepresented by educating ourselves and working towards a more equitable and inclusive KU, even when it is difficult. Our community has incredible potential. My hope is each one of us understands and values the role we play in unlocking a brighter future of a caring culture that centers belonging. I look forward to seeing the difference we will have made one year from now.

In solidarity,

D. A.

D. A. Graham

Interim Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging