[Important Information for Employees] A Message from President Enyedi on the Death of Tyre Nichols

[Office of the President]

Dear Campus,


As we prepare for the beginning of Black History Month in just a few days,
a time when we should be coming together to celebrate the many essential
contributions of Black and Brown people, we are now simultaneously
processing and mourning the senseless death of Tyre Nichols. All of this
comes just one week after the devastating news of the loss of innocent
lives in two Asian communities located in California.


I know that many of you are feeling devastated. Fearful. Outraged.
Frustrated.



And I share your feelings as I stand with you today – upset that we have
arrived at this moment, but also determined to create a world where a young
Black man can safely drive home without being harmed simply for the color
of his skin.


I condemn the violent actions of the five Memphis police officers
responsible for Mr. Nichols’ death. While they must be held fully
accountable, we must also insist that the policies and protocols that allow
for such brutal and inhumane treatment of our Black and Brown community be
immediately addressed and amended.

We can accept no less. We can expect no less.


During this difficult time, please remember that there is support here on
campus for those who wish to reach out.


Students are encouraged to call the Counseling Center
<https://www.plattsburgh.edu/plattslife/health-safety/health-counseling-center/index.html>
at 518-564-2187. Students may also take advantage of our Student Assistance
Program <https://portal.bhsonline.com/auth/hashcode>, which provides
immediate, 24/7 services by trained counselors at no additional cost.


Employees are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program
<https://www.plattsburgh.edu/about/offices-divisions/administration-finance/about-us/offices/employee-assistance-office.html>
by emailing ateap at plattsburgh.edu for support and for referrals to
additional community professionals and resources.


As part of our work toward a more inclusive, equitable campus, it is
essential that we frame these specific incidents in the context of the
larger conversation of racism and oppression that allows violence against
persons of color to continue. As such, the Office of Diversity, Equity and
Inclusion will host a Safe Space in the H.U.B. on Tuesday, January 31, 2023
from 3 to 5 p.m. for students and employees to process these issues and
their impact. This Safe Space will provide an opportunity to talk about the
violence against Tyre Nichols. It will also address the recent violence
against the Asian community during the time of the Chinese Lunar New Year
and the rise in antisemitism that coincides with the recent anniversary of
International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Ultimately, the gathering will
serve as a forum for attendees to share and listen to the concerns and
perspectives of those present in the H.U.B.


In addition to the upcoming Safe Space, the Truth, Racial Healing, and
Transformation Center will host the first Healing Circle of 2023 in the HUB
from 12 to 1 p.m. on Friday, February 3 for anyone on campus who is able to
attend. This is another opportunity to gather with those on campus, share
experiences, and seek solutions and healing with the support of the
collective community.


While we send our deepest condolences to Tyre Nichols’ family, I also send
you my commitment to continue building a campus culture that honors and
celebrates our diversity, embraces all races and cultures, and protects the
rights and freedom of all who live, study and work at SUNY Plattsburgh.


As Cardinals, we will continue to resist hate and discrimination in all
forms. And as your president, I and my leadership team will continue to
work with all of you to ensure that we are continually moving in that
direction.


Sincerely,


Dr. Alexander Enyedi

President
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