African American & African Diaspora Studies

A statement from AADS: Dr. Noelle Morrissette addresses the murder of George Floyd

Posted on June 8, 2020

Statement from the Director

As Director of African American and African Diaspora Studies I share my response to the murder of George Floyd, only the most recent life lost in a spate of recent acts of racial violence—and this in a much longer history of attacks on the personhood of black people. At AADS, we are scholars of the history, power and beauty of black people in America and the diaspora, and we also teach the history of racial oppression and structures of inequality. Although we have distinct scholarly voices, I know I speak for the faculty in stating that we collectively condemn antiblack racism and the pervasive and systemic violence directed at black people.

AADS is committed to supporting the voices of our students in a time when many feel that their lives and livelihood are threatened when they speak. We recognize the need for equity and inclusion for our students on campus and in the national fabric. We affirm our commitment to providing opportunity and access to our students, many of whom are from underserved and vulnerable communities, knowing that a college degree is the surest pathway to success for those from low and moderate income families.

As scholars and educators, the faculty of AADS is dedicated to improving students’ lives, building better community, and affirming the diversity of our knowledge, experience, and selves as we work toward a collective future. We affirm the need to support our students of color on campus, to give them a platform from which to speak, and to unequivocally stand against racism in all its forms.

Noelle Morrissette Director,
AADS Associate Professor of English