Dear UA School of Social Work Students,
The University of Alabama School of Social Work is saddened by the renewed wave of violence against African Americans. George Floyd has joined Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and a far too long list of souls taken from this world by a racist and unjust system.
We know the impact of these deaths on, you, our students. We know that you are processing all that is happening. In the School of Social Work, we stand by the well-being and equal treatment of all students, their families, and their communities. We encourage you to reach out if you need support. The University of Alabama offers resources from the Counseling Center, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and, of course, the SSW faculty and staff.
We also know that you desire change. We urge you all to join us in being part of that change. What can you do? Participate in a peaceful protest or two, write a letter to your local newspaper, contact your legislator, donate blood, complete the Census, send a financial contribution to a racial justice initiative, and most importantly register to vote and show up for every election. Let us each do our part in pushing forward social change.
Take care of yourselves and know the School of Social Work supports you,
Lesley Reid, SSW Interim Dean
Members of the SSW Diversity Committee