Statement from the IE-CRE Team

In a country in which the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated racial inequalities, we stand in solidarity with all of those seeking to reform our institutions in the name of justice, equity, and inclusion. We speak the names of the most recent victims of unjust policing, including George Floyd, Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Our indignation is amplified by the fact that the tragic events in Minneapolis and elsewhere are not isolated cases, but instead manifestations of social injustice and racial bias in this country. We are insulted by a seemingly endless list of episodes of systemic inequality, and we feel the need to speak out. Hatred, discrimination, intolerance, and injustice are unacceptable. They have no place inside or outside our University community. We support a peaceful process, without resorting to violence and hatred. As Dr. King said: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

As a team that promotes inclusive excellence in education and actively works to provide equal opportunities for all students and faculty, we vow to multiply our efforts to acknowledge, reflect upon, and fight systemic inequality, particularly within educational institutions. We recognize the urgent need to work even harder to support all members of the LTU community, especially students of underserved communities within our institution. We are committed to promoting systemic change in our university where diversity, equity, and inclusion are intrinsic values and every student has access to the excellent education that LTU can provide. We all need to continuously move towards a better future at LTU.  We recognize that diversity, equity, and inclusion are key factors in this process.

The Inclusive Excellence – Course-Based Research Experience Team