Black Awareness Coordinating Committee statement on the death of George Floyd

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in the moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. The true neighbor will risk his position, his prestige, and even his life for the welfare of others." - Martin Luther King Jr.

Official statement on the behalf of the Black Awareness Coordinating Committee pertaining to recent instances of overt racism, one of which has resulted in the death of George Floyd.

May 31, 2020

Rochester Institute of Technology Brother and Sisters,

We, the Black Awareness Coordinating Committee, would be remiss if we did not find ourselves hurting alongside our students, families and friends who have been protesting in response to the heinous crimes that have been brought to life these past days. It goes without saying that the death of our brother George Floyd has struck the heart of the nation and all those who are in support of the black community.

First and foremost, we, the Black Awareness Coordinating Committee, sincerely hope that everyone who has made the decision to protest is remaining safe during these times wherever they may be. It is impossible to look on any platform and not see the spilling of hearts and lips that weep for the death of the innocent. We sincerely hope that each and every one of you are actively attending to your mental health needs.

The way that we must now face trials are different than before due to our current global pandemic. We have not been able to weep in each other’s arms like we once did, only a few months ago. Even still, we each have our voices. These cannot be taken away, even with having to maintain six feet of distance. We still have our voices, and we still have each other. These are times where we must see the realities of our society and not shrink away from their truths, no matter how devastating and hurtful that they are. We must rise up and use this time to fight for something not yet had -- equality. Each step that we take in protest of these detestable injustices are paved with the names of those whose lives have been lost to inconceivable violence. We must say their names so as to not forget them and as to not forget what we are fighting for. Their names are Sandra Bland, Breonna Taylor, Treyvon Martin, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, Mike Brown, and now George Floyd and the many more who have died at the hands of those meant to protect.

We grieve together. We stand together. We will rebuild together.

We love you.

Black Awareness Coordinating Committee 2020-’21