MATTER IS A MINIMUM

Black Lives Matter.

Campus resources: https://equity.ucla.edu/know/resources-for-racial-trauma/ 

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Dear ASC Community, 

The project of decolonization did not end with the liberation of former African colonies. The fight for equality for all Americans did not end with the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Certainly, the effectuation of these laws put into motion important levers of change. Watching the news in recent days has only reaffirmed, however, what the news has told us for decades: the continued oppression and murder of black people in America make clear just how much remains to be done. 

Like you, we are saddened beyond words for the lives lost; tired of these injustices; furious over the lack of progress; worried for the safety of our communities; and uncertain how to best be allies in this moment and for the work needed ahead for lasting change. We are certain, however, that it is our responsibility to think, listen, learn and lead. 

UCLA as an institution must do better for our black students, staff, and faculty—whether their ancestors arrived here over 400 years ago or they are here on an international visa today. We must act to ensure that this university is more accessible and more accountable for the experiences of Africans and African Americans on our campus. We must also reflect on how to use the considerable power of this institution to effect changes locally and nationally. We must get our own house in order.

How do we best do that? In this moment, we can embrace and support those who are fighting on the frontlines, and we can create spaces for conversations that will guide education and action. From decolonizing the university to decolonizing America, the UCLA African Studies Center is committed to be a partner for justice. We thank our longtime allies and invite new partnerships as we move forward. 

To our community: we stand with you now; we will stand with you until everyone has equal justice and equal rights.

In Solidarity, 

The UCLA African Studies Center 

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Read the Washington Post article by UCLA alumnus, Nana Osei-Opare:

"Around the world, the U.S. has long been a symbol of anti-black racism"

Today’s global protests against racism in the U.S. have a long history.

By Nana Osei-Opare, assistant professor of African & Cold War history at Fordham University, New York City

 

A man sits under a painting depicting George Floyd at the Kibera slum in Nairobi, on Thursday. (Baz Ratner)

Published: Tuesday, June 2, 2020