Dear MICA Community,
This afternoon, jurors reached a guilty verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin, who was charged with the murder of George Floyd and is now convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter.
While this verdict and several key elements of the trial have moved in the direction of justice, the racialized and senseless violence that has caused the death of George Floyd and so many other people of color persists and continues to bring pain, trauma, and grief. MICA stands in solidarity with all who demand and act to achieve change. No single verdict will ever undo the horrific events that occurred. May this outcome help bring a moment of solace and hope for a better future.
MICA remains committed to helping make this future true, and there is still much work to be done for our city, country, and world to become what we jointly envision—a safe, just, and equitable world for all. Through our communal work in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Globalization (DEIG), and through our collective efforts as creative professionals and individuals, we will cultivate at MICA the mindset, dialogues, and skills necessary for human-centered problem-solving and change making.
This is an emotional time, and I encourage you to use the resources available at MICA. For a safe and supportive space, please consider joining the Community Gathering scheduled on May 7 that is open to all students, faculty, and staff; details will be forthcoming. The Community of Care is also available outside of these gatherings, and can be reached via email at communityofcare@mica.edu.
Tele-appointments for students also continue to be available at the Student Counseling Center (410-225-2367 or counseling@mica.edu). Support for students is also available through the Center for Culture & Identity (formerly the Center for Identity & Inclusion) (diversity@mica.edu), and the Office of Student Affairs (studentaffairs@mica.edu). Faculty and staff members are encouraged to seek assistance through the Employee Assistance Program.
Additionally, I want to share a handful of external resources, including:
As we continue to process this verdict—and the complex emotions that it evokes—please be kind to yourself and take care of each other.
Sammy