Dear CSSW Community,
Today, January 15th, would have been the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 92nd birthday, and on Monday we will celebrate his life and legacy in the United States. The timing of this holiday is deeply significant this year – coming so soon after the violent attack on our nation’s Capitol building by white supremacists, and only days before the historic inauguration of the first Black and Indian woman as Vice President.
While many of us continue to process last week’s events, let us take the time to honor Dr. King by reflecting on his words: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of convenience and comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
These are profoundly challenging times. It is shameful that so many in our community are suffering and feeling fearful after the anti-Black racism and bigotry we beheld last week. This must change.
Now, more than ever, we must stand resolute in our ongoing fight for racial justice, continued advocacy and civic engagement, and commitment to always serving and standing up for those individuals and communities that are most vulnerable and marginalized. Before malevolent violence took his life far too early, Dr. King didn’t allow anyone or anything to deter him from creating a movement that transformed America. Neither should we be discouraged. Let us honor him by continuing to do “the work,” and to do so together.
In community,
Melissa Begg
Dean & Professor
Karma Lowe
Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion