Good evening –
I write to you today because of my concern over the appalling events of this past week. Inhumane treatment of anyone is something that I cannot tolerate, and during my career I have seen too many examples like we all witnessed last week. I do not pretend to understand the depth or breadth of bias and prejudice experienced by people of color, every day, as I am a white man who was born into privilege, never having had these experiences. However, I am also a scientist and a trained observer who has witnessed a history of injustice for black, brown and Asian people over the past six decades of my life.
The death of George Floyd is yet another horrible example of racial inequity and violence against people of color which has moved our country into a critical period of social self-examination. At this time of anger and division among people, we should be wary of those that choose to politicize and further polarize our communities and institutions. None of us should make light of what is going on around us, as we watch the very fabric of our United States being challenged. If our country is to survive, it must address the long-standing generational inequalities and aggression experienced by people of color. A common denominator among all families is our children, and our wish for them to have a safe and happy life. No mother or father should ever have to witness the abuse and disrespect of their own child, much less their murder. Our society must find a way to respect all people, all children, and truly value life for all human beings, regardless of their appearance, or personal beliefs.
Although many of us are angry over recent events, regardless of your political beliefs, violence is not a solution. My hope is that each of us within the Reedley College community will take time this week to re-examine our definition of equitable treatment, while reaffirming our institutional commitment to support every student and every employee in the pursuit of their educational and professional goals. We must accept that true social change will be required to achieve equity for all people, beyond simply words, in order to bring an end to the racial bias and generational poverty experienced by people of color in this valley and in our country. I would appreciate your careful thought and respectful communication over the comiang days and weeks as our country enters uncharted territory. Now is the time for each of us to take action to create the communities and country we want for our children, and for all children, through our personal nd professional leadership.
I wish you and your families safety and security through these difficult times.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jerry L. Buckley
