The Derek Chauvin Trial and Caring for Our Seattle U Community

Dear Seattle University Community,

As we await the verdict this afternoon in the Derek Chauvin trial, we write to reaffirm Seattle University’s commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive, and just community.

Regardless of its outcome, the trial, as well as the recent killings of young Black men including Daunte Wright at the hands of law enforcement, has yet again opened painful wounds that never have a chance to heal. Please know that Seattle University values each and every member of our community and we stand in a particular way with our Black students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We acknowledge the weight of this moment for our entire campus community. To those who are struggling, please reach out for help. Available resources can be found at the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. To our faculty and staff, we encourage you to check in with students and make sure they are supported. Let us all be mindful and take care of one another.

Much as the cause for racial justice is unfinished in the world around us, we acknowledge this to be true for Seattle University, as well. At the same time, we are heartened by the willingness of so many students and colleagues to address and confront head-on injustice and racism in all its forms at our university. As an important step in these efforts, the university is holding a Racial Equity Summit on May 18, and we look forward to reflecting upon systemic racism and taking action to become an antiracist institution.

Please be assured of our ongoing commitment and support as together we work toward being a community that truly values, respects, and upholds the dignity of all its members.

Sincerely,

Natasha Martin, JD
Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion

Shane P. Martin, PhD
Provost

Alvin Sturdivant, EdD
Vice President of Student Development