The events of this past week in our Nation’s capitol
By David Sarrett and Carlos Smith
We all should be saddened by the violent events this week in our Nation’s Capital. Political division has, and always will, exist in our country. For political division to devolve into violence, personal injury, and property destruction in the building where debate is supposed to find solutions to political differences is horrifying. Those who are responsible must be punished as violence is never a solution. President Rao’s message this week sums it saying the events in Washington, DC “stand in stark contrast to the core values of our democracy and are shocking. Violence is not free speech and is never an acceptable option toward resolving difference, political or otherwise.” Similar responses were issued by other leaders in higher education. We should all hope this is a low point from which our nation will rise.
Although we are certainly individuals, we are also a professional collective – faculty, staff, and students – clinicians, researchers, administrators – all working diligently to advance optimal oral health and well being for all – as a collective, the actions of one of us has the potential to influence societal trust in all of us. It is timely to remind our school community of our recently adopted commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion – Diversity Driving Excellence: Our strength is in all people. Remember our differences provide leverage for the greater good and must unite us, more than they divide us.
Realizing that for many in our community, these events may be quite triggering and emote a range of feelings such as painful memories of violent attacks on democratic ideals in countries of origin. Furthermore it may create reminders of differential and discriminatory treatment based on race or ethnicity, or simply past personal trauma. Let us remember to be careful with our words, for words matter.
We encourage you to be mindful of your emotional wellbeing and of those in community with you. Student and employee resources information are listed below.
Happy New Year and best wishes for 2021!
University Counseling Services (http://www.students.vcu.edu/counseling/)
VCU Employee Assistance Program (http:// www.anthemeap.com)
VCU Dental Care Employee Assistance Program (1-800-386-7055)
Categories Deans blog, schoolwide news