Weekend Attacks in El Paso and Dayton

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 21:09:44 -0400

As we reflect on the weekend attacks in El Paso and Dayton, as well as recent shootings in California and Illinois, and the persistent struggles with gun violence in urban centers like Baltimore and Chicago, we recognize that we have had to send too many of these messages. Yet we know that it is central to our humanity to acknowledge these tragedies, honor the victims, and grieve with all directly affected.

We also know that words must be joined by actions. As we prepare for the new semester, each of us has the opportunity to consider how we can best live the values of UMBC to help stem the tide of hate and violence that inspire such senseless acts. Now more than ever, our values of respect, inclusive excellence, and critical inquiry are essential parts of building a community that can help identify solutions to the urgent problems in our nation and world. We must continue to reach together across different experiences and perspectives to make change. We are fortunate to have a wide variety of campus resources available to students, faculty, and staff who wish to be involved in this work including the Center for Democracy and Civic Life (410-455-1565).

We are also aware that our community members will have a wide range of emotional responses to these events. If you or a loved one has been affected by these tragedies, please consider seeking additional support. Those who are in need of resources can contact the UMBC Counseling Center at 410-455-2472.