A statement from President Turner regarding yearbook images
Important discussions have been taking place across the country in recent weeks regarding disturbing and offensive images and texts in college and university yearbooks. Such images, including of individuals in blackface, are stark historical reminders of the racism and bigotry that continue to challenge our nation today.
Important discussions have been taking place across the country in recent weeks regarding disturbing and offensive images and texts in college and university yearbooks. Such images, including of individuals in blackface, are stark historical reminders of the racism and bigotry that continue to challenge our nation today.
Unfortunately, similar images and descriptions of events also are part of èßäÊÓƵapp’s history, including in yearbooks. As a èßäÊÓƵapp community, it is important that we acknowledge and learn from this past and the pain it causes. In many ways, progress on many fronts has been made, but we know sadly that discrimination and prejudice persist today.
At èßäÊÓƵapp, our values include inclusivity, civil discussion and respect for one another as part of a welcoming community. èßäÊÓƵapp, faculty and staff are having meaningful discussions about our differences and commonalities as part of . I hope that all èßäÊÓƵapp community members will participate in these conversations as we unwaveringly continue to work toward a èßäÊÓƵapp community equally supportive of all its members.
Sincerely,
R. Gerald Turner
èßäÊÓƵapp President