George Floyd Tragedy

Colleagues,

Words simply cannot express the depths of the sadness and anger that so many of us in our community, and around the country, are struggling with at this moment. George Floyd's tragic and senseless death, like so many others over the years, has once again shined a light on the pain and suffering so many people of color have endured for far, far too long. We stand with all of our students, faculty, and staff who are furious that this continues to happen. It is our responsibility, both personally and collectively, to stand up and speak out on behalf of change.

But words alone are not enough. Never has the mission of our colleges been more important. Now, more than ever, we must foster a culture of inclusivity that prepares our students to lead a better, more just world. We must continue to give voice to the historically underrepresented and disenfranchised at our colleges who have been silenced for too long. Though we are all experiencing feelings of despair and discouragement today, we know that the changes our colleges are making because of our shared commitment to social justice and equity will provide pathways for our students to a better life.

Dr. King said that "the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." Even in these sad and scary times, we must also remain hopeful that better days lie ahead of us. Please be safe, be brave, and, above all else, be kind to one another.

Sincerely,

Brian King
Chancellor, Los Rios Community College District

Thomas Greene
President, American River College

Ed Bush
President, Cosumnes River College

Whitney Yamamura
President, Folsom Lake College

Michael Gutierrez
President, Sacramento City College