To Our Students, Faculty, and Staff,

Many in our community are shocked and saddened by recent events, both on and off campus. This week, UMBC Police are investigating two reports of hate-bias crimes. These reports  encompassed an attack on a Muslim student, the use of anti-Black slurs in an online meeting, a targeted verbal attack on a Black student in that meeting, and comments referencing LGBTQ populations. And now, with the acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse in Kenosha, Wisconsin, we are once again reminded that injustice persists in our society. We still have so much work to do.

First, we want to make sure that as our community reacts to this news, students, faculty, and staff have the support that they need. You can find a comprehensive and timely list of resources for community members on this myUMBC page. We will also continue to share links to any upcoming care and support events. Please reach out to one another and, if you need help, ask for it.

While the close occurrence of these two reports of hate and bias in our community is troubling, we deeply appreciate the courage of the victims and witnesses who came forward to report these acts. Thank you for putting your trust in the University to investigate these reports and provide support for all affected.

Most importantly, we must all continue to commit ourselves to doing the work of equity and inclusion on our campus and beyond. Thank you for everything you do to support this work. This is truly the DNA of UMBC and what keeps hope alive.

President Freeman Hrabowski

Provost Philip Rous

Mehrshad Devin, President, Student Government Association

Orianne Smith, President, Faculty Senate

Joel Tyson, President, Graduate Student Association

Melody Wright, M.A. '21, President, Non-Exempt Staff Senate

Jess Wyatt, President, Professional Staff Senate