Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,
While it was not a traditional week-long spring break, I hope you had some time away from work and studies to recharge as we finish the last two months of the academic year. Please be sure to follow all COVID-19 health and safety procedures, including closely monitoring your health for symptoms. Thank you for your continued support in helping to keep our campus safe and doing your part to help control the spread of COVID-19.Jury selection began Tuesday in the trial of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin. Over the next few months, many people across the state and around the world will be watching the court proceedings in Minneapolis. This trial and the activities around it are sure to bring a mix of emotions, challenges, and stresses to our community, especially for Black, Indigenous, and people of color.
The issues surrounding the trial are complex and underscore the importance of justice for our society. During unsettling times, I encourage you to find ways to lean in and engage in constructive dialogue, even when the conversations are difficult. While we cannot predict the outcome of this case, we can support each other and continue to model our core values of respect, inclusiveness, and integrity.
Recognizing all of this, I also want to remind each of you that we have support resources available. Please reference this Supporting UMD Students During the Chauvin Trial document for a comprehensive list of resources for students and how faculty and staff can help support students during this time.
The Office for Public Engagement on the Twin Cities campus also has a trial website with useful resources, including a great section on past events, recordings, and scholarship that help individuals engage in dialogue about racial justice.
In addition, faculty and staff can find resources through the Office of Human Resources/Chauvin Trial Resources website.
Sincerely,
Lendly C. Black
Chancellor
