Dear Lincoln College Community,
Once again our country is facing another serious issue between the police and Black community through the shooting of Mr. Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Our prayers are with him, his family, and his children who had to witness this traumatic event.
The death of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others continue to accentuate the need for systemic change in our society and the criminal justice system. Racism, bias, and prejudice are all woven into the historical and modern-day treatment of United States citizens of color.
Although we do not believe all law enforcement officers misuse the delegated power of their profession, incidents such as Jacob Blake stress the need for more police training in “use of force” instances where race and ethnicity may be the deciding factor in the final response.
The need for reform and systemic change continues to be at the forefront of Lincoln College’s mission. With the assistance of Lincoln College’s newly formed A.B.I.D.E. (Access, Belonging, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity) Committee and Lincoln College’s Center for Social Justice and Public Policy, we hope to become regional leaders in addressing issues of racism, prejudice, bias, stereotypes, and inequity. Students, faculty, and staff will have a voice and safe space in which these critical and courageous conversations about race and systemic change can emerge.
Lincoln College is committed to closing the historical gaps that lead to inequality both in education and society. We want our Black and Brown students to know they can succeed regardless of the present challenges and barriers.
We invite all of the students, staff, and faculty to share strategies you believe will assist the A.B.I.D.E. Committee in developing programming, professional development, and training related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. You can contact Dr. Saint Rice, A.B.I.D.E. Committee Chair or Mr. Richard Johnson, Center for Social Justice and Public Policy Committee Chair.
For students, faculty, or staff experiencing distress as a result of our national climate, please contact Lincoln College Counseling Services at 217.735.7293 or [email protected].
Employees and students are also encouraged to reach out to President Gerlach if needed.
Sincerely,
Dr. Saint Rice
Associate Professor, Criminal Justice Department
David M. Gerlach, Ph.D.
President
