Dear UMB Community,

This past weekend, we saw another terrible instance of violence and hatred against Black people in our country. On Saturday, a white supremacist carried out a targeted attack against African American shoppers in Buffalo, N.Y., killing 10 and injuring others.  

We are profoundly saddened and angry, and we know that many in the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community feel the same. Our hearts go out to the families of those who were killed, injured or traumatized by the shooting. Our thoughts also are with those who are deeply affected by yet another mass shooting, hateful acts of violence against African Americans in this country, and gun violence that continues to plague our society. 

As a UMB community, we denounce acts of violence, racism, and hatred, as well as racism in all its forms. We commit to living out our core values of respect and integrity, and equity and justice. Black lives matter. We stand in solidarity with the communities of Buffalo, the victims of this tragedy and their families, as well as with the victims of the shooting in Dallas, and all victims of violence and hate. We affirm our commitment to building a more inclusive, just, and peaceful society. 

To anyone who feels overwhelmed, fearful, angry, or anxious, please know that you are not alone. UMB is here and has resources to support you including the Student Counseling Center and the Employee Assistance Program. Resources also are available from the Intercultural Center and the Diversity Advisory Council to learn more about how to address bias, racism, and white supremacy.

In solidarity, 

Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS

President

Diane Forbes Berthoud, PhD, MA

Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer and Vice President