Dear Manhattan College Community,
Enough is enough.
The past couple of months have been filled with unprecedented events that have tested our community’s ability to adapt and respond in the correct manner. Admittedly, the senseless killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many other black individuals, are not unprecedented.
At this point in time we think it is unacceptable to stay silent when there is social injustice being committed against marginalized groups in our society. We cannot and will not ignore our nation’s history, therefore we will use our knowledge and awareness of the past in order to help create and foster a better future for those who have yet to experience substantial change. As a result, we are focusing our efforts on helping advance Manhattan College’s commitment to fostering a community centered on safety, inclusivity, and diversity.
While we may never know exactly how it may feel to be under attack in this way, we want to offer our unbridled support and backing for all of our fellow Jaspers. We will do everything we can to represent the humanity, values, and interests of our black peers as well as all marginalized groups, and to work in the best interest of those who need our support at this moment. Although we are not able to be on the front lines of the protests across the country, we are committed to doing the work right here on campus to educate our fellow students, faculty, and administration of the dangers of racism and other forms of oppression that continue to prevail to this very day.
Our executive board is looking forward to collaborating with important campus organizations such as the Black Student Union, Student Engagement, and CMSA, in hopes of organizing a town hall that directly addresses some of the pressing social issues in our country. This event will afford students, faculty, administration, parents, and alumni the chance to voice any concerns or ideas they may have in a safe and intimate setting. We will provide more information about this future town hall when it becomes available.
Likewise, we look forward to co-hosting events that will promote a culture of allyship among the entirety of the student body.
In the meantime, please reach out to us with any feelings, ideas, or experiences that would make you feel more comfortable on Manhattan College’s campus. Bigotry, racism, xenophobia and disrespect of any kind will under no circumstances be tolerated during our time in these positions. We recognize the privilege and power that we have and vow to always be a resource that promotes justice for all.
This conversation is unavoidable.
We are a community built upon Lasallian values.
Therefore, we will be better.
Sincerely,
The 2020-2021 Student Government Association Executive Board