URI Athletics Releases Action Statement Supporting Black Lives Matter
University of Rhode Island Press Release
“As we watch what is happening in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, it is difficult to come to grips with what feels like unprecedented times in our country. The truth, however, is that much of what has us shocked and struggling right now is not unprecedented, or even unfamiliar. We have members of our URI Athletics family who have experienced racism first-hand, and it has been heartbreaking to hear their stories over the course of the last week.
“The unfortunate truth though, is that for so many of us that have not experienced racism, these stories are exactly that – stories. They are anecdotes we hear, and maybe we get upset or angry, but then we move on. We will never actually understand their struggles or their fears, or the burdens they bear simply because of the color of their skin. Time will not heal these wounds unless we speak up, educate and act.
“We really have so much work to do.
“While the #BlackLivesMatter movement and the ongoing fight to end racism in this country is not new, the difference now is our collective focus. We are more aware. We are more outraged. And we are more engaged. We aren’t simply watching history unfold before our eyes. We are stepping up, stepping in, and playing an active role in what needs to be a turning point in our nation’s history.
“Things have got to change. We need to be better to one another. For one another.
“Voicing our support for #BlackLivesMatter is not just important, it is necessary. But words are not enough. We need to back our words with action.
“Rhode Island Athletics has a platform to impact the various communities with which we are intertwined. More than that, we have a responsibility to make sure every person within those communities knows that they are valued and respected.
“As a staff, while our individual roles may vary, the one thing we all share in common is that we educate and mentor. Now more than ever, it is essential that our student-athletes know we are standing right beside them. That we are here to listen and support, and that we are dedicated to creating leaders in activism and change.
“Many of our coaches and student-athletes have shared their experiences and reactions through various forms of media. Our athletes – current and former – have taken active roles in protests. As a department, we have partnered with URI’s University College for Academic Success to open dialogue with black-identified student-athletes and allies, providing a safe space to discuss and understand recent racial incidents. These are important first steps.
“As we move forward, we will continue to listen and learn with open minds and open hearts. We will remember to take a step back and look at the big picture, pausing to make sure our decisions and actions not only support our core values, but also promote pride in the things that make each of us unique.
“Racism is deeply woven into the fabric of our country, and things are not going to change overnight. But little by little, and day by day, we are seeing ordinary people like us make a difference. We are inspired by the social activism that’s taking place all across America right now, and we are committed to being part of this movement for change.”
