Statement on the Deaths of George Floyd and Others

The faculty, staff and students of the Psychology Department at Marquette University unequivocally express immense sorrow and outrage at the senseless killing of George Floyd, which bore striking and tragic similarity to other unjust killings, including of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Dontre Hamilton, Sean Reed, and many others. We write to express support of all of our students, colleagues and friends but, in particular, our African American students, colleagues and friends who are being confronted by so many tragic deaths, including at the hands of those who have sworn to protect and serve.

The department expresses a commitment to redouble our efforts to live up to our mission statement and to promote and help build an inclusive environment within our department, on campus, in our neighborhoods, in our nation, and across the world. We rededicate ourselves to efforts to recognize, honor and respect people of all backgrounds and experiences. We pledge to continue to work towards eliminating racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of injustice. 

We hope that everyone will take the time reflect on how they can help to bring justice, compassion and kindness both to those with whom they interact and to all members of our society.

We end by quoting former President Barack Obama:  "This shouldn't be 'normal' in 2020 America. It can't be 'normal.' If we want our children to grow up in a nation that lives up to its highest ideals, we can and must be better."

Marquette University Psychology Department Faculty, Staff and Students
May 29, 2020.