The message below was posted on the University website May 29, 2020.
Statement from CSUN President Dianne F. Harrison on Senseless Killing of George Floyd
Like many of you, I have been heartbroken as I watched the news about the killing of George Floyd. The video of him gasping for breath as the knee of a police officer dug into his neck horrified me. We are in support of all of our students, in particular, our African American students who are witnessing another tragic death of an unarmed black man at the hands of those who have sworn to protect and serve. I wish I had an answer for why some act with such malice and carelessness.
I have hope there will be some measure of justice, but I am left with the hollow realization that full justice for Mr. Floyd, his friends and family, and so many African Americans continues to elude us. While not nearly enough, I ask that you take time to reflect on how you can bring justice and kindness to your neighborhood and in whatever groups or organizations you serve. At CSUN, we will continue to uphold and work to advance the values of diversity and inclusion so that all are treated with respect and dignity, but this death is a sad reminder that our work is not nearly done.
I want every member of our campus community to feel welcome and safe, and my heart goes out to our students, faculty, staff and alumni of color who again are reminded of the inequities and violence they continue to face. While we must do much more as a society and must do it now, CSUN supports all of you.