The programs that comprise the College of Health and Human Services are about people and helping them to live happier, healthier, and safer lives. Thus, we strongly condemn police brutality that has disproportionately affected members of the Black community. Furthermore, we condemn the prevailing systemic racism that perpetuates social injustice and economic and health disparities.  

There is no one perfect statement and a statement alone isn’t enough. Additionally, there isn’t only one action we must take. Instead, we must systematically address policies and practices in all facets of daily living that disproportionately suppress, impoverish, hurt, and kill members of the Black community.  

The College of Health and Human Services is committed to doing our part. To begin, we will support professional development and training for our faculty, staff, and students to advance inclusive excellence, equity, and social justice on our campus and beyond.  In addition, we have started to engage meaningfully with community leaders. We are working to connect faculty experts to community initiatives and pursue critical action steps to help end systemic racism. In the days, weeks, and years to come, we must stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our community partners to advance antiracism, inform policy change, and build a healthier, happier, and safer life for all members of our population.   

As President Conoley said in her statement, “We can do better. We must do better. We will do better.”