Support for our communities during turbulent times
Dear UIndy community,
So much is happening in our world right now that it is hard to focus on any one item. We have spent almost all of our time trying to figure out how to recreate ourselves to be safe during the time of the Coronavirus. Today, we must focus on the recent injustices that are occurring around the country that interfere with our black population’s right to live free and fulfilling lives.
I want you all to know that our leadership team at the University sees the dangers involved with the way black males and females are being treated, and are doing our best to engage the public leaders in our area to understand why this is still one of the most pressing issues of our time. I also want you to know that our University leaders are working on designing ways to provide those in our community who are worried, upset, scared, and angry with a safe environment in which to live. The University has always had the strongest commitment to building and maintaining an open and inclusive environment – and in the wake of these events, we will continue forward with that goal.
It seems like each day brings a new assault on the differences in our world. I yearn for a time when our society becomes more civil, and finds a way to address the root causes of racism so that no one has to live in fear while doing daily activities that most of us take for granted.
To all of the black men and women feeling distressed – and to all of those who are connected to them – I want you to know that we are concerned. I want you to know that we will be a resource for you — that we will use whatever skills we have to support you and create ways to bond together and help you move through this world that you inherited, but didn’t design.
To all of the people who belong to groups who have been oppressed, victims of bias, acts of hatred, or simply marginalized – I want you to know that we are here for you too. There are many powerful advocates for you at UIndy, and I hope you know we are here to support you emotionally, personally, professionally, and organizationally. Working with Dr. Amber Smith, Vice President and Chief Inclusion and Equity Officer, we will collect those powerful advocates, start connecting as a community, and design the public engagements we need to have a positive impact on our society.
While we are remote at this moment in time, I want you to know that there are many resources still here for you to access. The University will also host a Town Hall entitled “Profiled: The Plight of the Blacks in America” on Thursday, June 4, at 3 p.m. Further details will be shared this week by the Office of Inclusion and Equity. I urge you to participate in these important conversations as we provide a safe outlet to discuss our fears, our hopes, and our united path forward.
Sincerely,
Robert L. Manuel,
President, University of Indianapolis
Below are some University resources that are available.
UIndy Counseling Center Resources (for students):
To schedule an appointment at the Student Counseling Center, please call (317) 788-5015.
Employee Assistance Program (for faculty and staff)
University Chaplains
To schedule a time to speak with one of the University Chaplains, please contact Reverend Jeremiah Gibbls at gibbsj@uindy.edu.
Equity and Inclusion Office
oie@uindy.edu
This link offers some opportunities that you can follow to become involved in the city and beyond.