UNB News
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The events of the past few days, sparked by the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, illustrates the important work --yet still largely undone --in fighting racism in all its forms around the world.

At UNB we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and we condemn all forms of racism. Racism and racial bias have no place and is not tolerated at UNB. As a community we need to acknowledge the extent of racism experienced by many people from across the community and to re-double efforts to heal past and current wounds. This is an important collective responsibility for our community at UNB.

The spread of peaceful protests around North American cities illustrates the collective conscience among diverse members of the community from young to older, from different ethnic groups, men and women all standing up against injustice and racism in its many forms. Their collective voice powerfully illuminates the need to work harder for a more just, tolerant and inclusive community.

Our community, and indeed the world, needs to grapple with the structures that perpetuate racism and injustice. At UNB, we have a responsibility to continue to improve and live up to our institutional values, as illustrated under our Strategic Vision: UNB Toward 2030 as one community—excellent, inclusive and engaged.

We acknowledge the important work of progressing our commitment to truth and reconciliation as well as supporting equity, diversity and inclusion across the university. As an institution, we know there is still work to be done toward creating and sustaining a truly equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment for our students, staff and faculty. This is not the work of discrete sections of the UNB community but rather it is something all of us must be aware and responsible for. It will take a collective effort to build a vibrant, indeed healthy and inclusive community across our university. This is important work, that requires action and commitment.

While I do not have all of the answers, what I do know is that we are stronger together. When one part of our community is hurting we all feel the pain. This is a time for reflection, understanding, commitment, empathy, and support.

Please know that, even under these pandemic circumstances, there are services and supports available to members of the UNB community. Please do not hesitate to reach out for assistance and support.

With kind regards,

Paul J. Mazerolle
President and Vice-Chancellor