Note: we originally published this message in June 2020, and it is as relevant today as it was then.
BLACK LIVES MATTER.
We stand in solidarity with our Black colleagues, the protesters and their aims, and with any colleague who may join them. In particular, we encourage everyone to show visible support for the people in our community who may be feeling particularly distressed and targeted by anti-Black violence. It is an opportune moment for those of us with relative privilege to reflect on that, and on how we might do better.
In light of recent events, we want to reiterate our principles and values, and our commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a department that includes individuals from many different countries and backgrounds, the UW–Madison physics department is committed to building a diverse community that supports people from all backgrounds, and we condemn any form of racism, discrimination, and intolerance.
We earnestly hope that we are seeing the beginning of a shift towards a more just society, in which all people are respected for their humanity, and resolve to do our part in that change.
- Sridhara Dasu, Professor and Department Chair
- Kevin Black, Professor and Faculty Co-Chair of the Department Climate and Diversity Committee
- Justin Vandenbroucke, Associate Professor and Faculty Co-Chair of the Department Climate and Diversity Committee