Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core components of the mission, vision, and values of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service. We believe it is our responsibility to not only encourage our students to challenge inequalities and injustices in society, but to give them skills in service and nurture their passions to work toward social change.
From the horrific killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and others, to the disproportionate impacts of COVID-19 on communities of color, what we are seeing now is just the latest in a long, tragic series of neglect, mistreatment, and violent events toward African Americans. As residents of Little Rock, we live in the shadow of the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School, where too many sat in silence while mobs were on the march.
The protests and sense of unrest that have developed across the country are the results of generations of pain, suffering, and neglect toward the African American community. As an institution of higher learning, and one that embodies the spirit of public service, it is our responsibility to speak out.
We are committed to our role in helping right the injustices of racism and discrimination. We are proud of the work we have done to provide opportunities through the Center on Community Philanthropy, across the curriculum, field service work, and public programs that promote and recognize principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. That work is more important now than ever. Encouraging and facilitating difficult conversations on vast inequalities across society, including race, are ultimately how we learn, reflect, and grow as a society.
Many Clinton School students and alumni have participated in protests across the country. We are proud of their efforts, and we support their right to peacefully and safely protest and exercise free speech.
Peace and justice go hand in hand.
– James L. “Skip” Rutherford III, Dean
– Susan A. Hoffpauir, Academic Dean
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