EOP Statement on Police Killings of Black Americans

UC Santa Cruz 

Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP) 

Statement on Police Killings of Black Americans

Image Credit: Institute of the Black World 21st Century

Ahmaud Arbery. Breanna Taylor. George Floyd. Tony McDade.

We are tired of being tired--it is exhausting to continue seeing Black Americans murdered by police and subjected to brutality and injustice. The dehumanization of African, Black and Caribbean (ABC) people is deeply rooted in the history of this country and higher education. We all need to acknowledge these challenges and work to change this reality starting from our own actions and treatment of Black Americans, as well as, our campus practices and policies that result in differential outcomes. Reversing the unequal outcomes at all levels is necessary to live out the conceptual commitment we espouse as an institution. 

To students, please know that we are here to support you, listen and partner to overcome barriers along your path. You are valued and you are a vital member of our (currently virtual) campus community. 

To staff and faculty, we are here to partner with you in being responsive to the ABC and EOP community as they face these injustices and institutionalized racism more broadly. Let’s ensure that they are seen, heard, and believed. Please call on us and be ready for self-reflection, accountability and the collective work ahead.  

“We know how to be racist. We know how to pretend to be not racist. Now let’s know how to be antiracist.”  - Ibram X. Kendi, How to be Antiracist, 2019