Our Stance on Racism

We are profoundly grieved, but not entirely surprised, as we share this statement. Since our founding moments, the Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center has focused on providing resources that complement and supplement curricular offerings, explore the intersections of identity, build intercultural competence, and promote and encourage cultural understanding and appreciation among the campus community. In addition, we provide opportunities for education and dialogue on topics such as race, religion, LGBTQ issues, privilege, intercultural communication, and bias-related incidents. We strive to make sure that our work serve as a lasting reminder that despite the systemic obstacles of hatred and racism, hope is possible.

The Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center is committed to serving students to the best of our ability at all times. At this time, amidst a pandemic that is hitting Black communities the hardest in terms of death counts, economic suffering, and sheer emotional toll, we are sympathetic that contents under extreme pressure sometimes explode. The pain and suffering of losing Black lives represents a historical pattern and ongoing injustice. Violence and brutality against unarmed Black citizens is tragic.

At this time, we express support for all of our students, past, current and future: you are our family. We stand with you; we feel your rage, fears, and frustration, and we hear your voices. We also know that you are the promise of a better future for all of us—for the planet, even.

We will not proceed as normal without recognizing the pain and struggle and hope of this American social moment. Black Lives Matter. We are here for you, no matter what.

With support and in solidarity,

The Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center

Adopted from the David T. Kearns Center's Stance on Racism.