Statement on Colorado Springs shooting
Dear School of Social Work community,
It is heartbreaking to reach out to you once again in the wake of a hate crime, this time directed at the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado Springs.
We grieve for those five killed and 18 injured, and their families; and we stand in solidarity with those directly impacted in Colorado Springs and anyone anywhere in the LGBTQ+ community who does not feel safe in the aftermath.
As the School of Social Work, we will continue to call out intolerance and hatred in its many forms. And we will continue doing the work to ensure diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in all that we do, so that no individual, group or community we engage with will feel unsafe; and continue to create a world in which all can thrive. As I said last week, continue to support and hold space for one another, be kind, and reach out if you see someone you think is hurting or needs assistance. We are here for you.
Rebecca Gomez, Ph.D.
Interim Dean
VCU School of Social Work