The killing of George Floyd in May 2020 and subsequent protests were stark examples of the ongoing racism that plagues our society, and spurred action from many within our community. Last summer, both Presidents, CSB+SJU faculty, CSB+SJU student senates, and many departments, issued statements affirming our commitment to continuing our work to build an inclusive campus community.

As the trial of the officer involved unfolds nearby in Minneapolis and we witness a disturbing rise in anti-Asian violence, individuals may reexperience past trauma. Our work at CSB+SJU to be an inclusive community calls us to be informed, to learn, and to use the tools of a liberal arts education to process what we are learning. In that spirit, we share a series of opportunities and services offered over the coming weeks:

“Let’s talk about the Chauvin trial”
Dates: Wednesdays starting March 24, 5-6pm via Zoom
Link: https://csbsju.zoom.us/j/94210520590
The Political Science department will host weekly listening sessions for students to talk about what’s going on in the trial – from jury selection to opening arguments to witnesses.

“CSB SSJ Walk for Justice”
Date: March 26 at 4:45pm, meet at CSB Mall
CSB Campus Ministry Spirituality and Social Justice team will hold a walk in remembrance of George Floyd, advocacy for a just trial, and justice served to all victims of police violence and brutality.

“No more elegies: Responding to racist violence and white supremacy through writing”
Dates: March 30, April 6, April 13, April 20 (all 6-7pm via Zoom)
Link: https://csbsju.zoom.us/j/97269567520
In collaboration with IISS, the Literary Arts Institute and English department will host a series of four writing workshops for participants to express their experiences.

“You’re not imagining it, that just happened”
Dates: April 6, April 20 (5-6pm)
Link: https://www.csbsju.edu/forms/CXAAJR6JUD
IISS and Counseling will host an in-person support group for students wishing to discuss and process their experiences of identity-related trauma, adversity, and/or distress. Please register so we may accommodate everyone.

“Peace and Positivity walk”
Date: April 7, meet at Gorecki at 4pm
Black Student Association reminds us that peace and positivity are only possible if justice is present. BSA will host a Peace and Positivity walk and distribute self-care bags.

SJUfaith Candlelight vigil
Date: April 8th at 8:00 pm outside of the Abbey Church