'We Can't Breathe' drop-in session set for Tuesday, Dec. 9
A "We Can't Breathe" drop-in session, described as an opportunity for students, staff members and faculty to "process the ongoing national crisis regarding police brutality and the killing of innocent lives," has been set for Tuesday, December 9, by the Office of Student Diversity Programs. Tea and hot chocolate will be served in the Intercultural Center between 2 and 7 p.m.
"This is an open space to be angry, to vent, and to share our emotions and experiences as individuals being impacted by an oppressive system and racist society," said Mariel Martin, director of student diversity programs. "Please join us in solidarity to take care of one another and create a community of understanding and love in a time of sadness and anger."
Last Monday, about 100 students, faculty and staff marched from Case Green to Congress Park as part of a national "Hands Up, Walk Out" protest sparked by the events in Ferguson, Mo. Four days later, about 150 Skidmore community participated in national "die-in for Eric Garner" on Case walkway. Protests around the country in recent days have drawn thousands into the streets.
In her report at Friday's Faculty Meeting, Martin listed several resources that are available to members of the the Skidmore community who are seeking support or assistance in connection with the issues raised by recent events in Ferguson and Staten Island, including her own Office of Student Diversity Programs, the Counseling Center, the Bias Response Group, IGR, the Black Faculty/Staff Group, and the Committee on Intercultural and Global Understanding.
