Dear Members of the Keystone College Community:
The last several days have indeed been trying times for our entire nation, including all of us in the Keystone community. The tragic murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis has impacted us all in so many ways and on so many levels. During such a time, it’s important to clearly state what Keystone, as an educational institution and as a close-knit, caring, community stands for and strives to become.
First and foremost, we deplore racial injustice of all kinds, whenever and wherever it exists. Whether it is on the streets of Minneapolis, New York City, Louisville, Atlanta, or anywhere else, including in our own community. In addition to rejecting such abhorrent behavior in our hearts and minds, we must act to stop it and support those policies and activities which further the goals of equal justice for all. In so many ways, our society has created a tolerance for racism, discrimination, and violence. The systematic suppression of members of the Black community must end if we are to truly obtain the shared goals of equality and peace. We can no longer delay our pursuit of the truth and our commitment to justice.
Peaceful demonstrations taking place in support of these ideals should and must be supported. At the same time, we realize that violent and destructive behavior serves to act as an obstacle to our common objectives and cannot be accepted or tolerated.
We know that many members of our campus community have directly or indirectly experienced racism or racial violence. There are also members of our community that feel helpless and saddened by the present circumstances. If you have been affected and need support, College counselors are available. Please contact counseling@keystone.edu to schedule an appointment. There is a way forward. With the necessary resolve and commitment, we have the ability to create a nation in which all voices are heard.
Keystone College was founded on the principle that everyone must be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve as a human being, as a citizen, and as a member of our inclusive college community. We will continue to work to live up to those principles today and in the days, months, and years ahead. Injustice prevails where hopelessness exists. But, together, we have hope for a brighter and just future. Believe, Belong, Become at Keystone College.
Sincerely,
Tracy L. Brundage, Ph.D.
President