Reflecting Upon Troublesome Moments
In the wake of recent tragedies that have shaken the nation, the School of Music has taken a stand against racism. The Inaugural Dean, Eileen L. Strempel, has penned a heartfelt letter to the community, emphasizing the importance of active and engaged anti-racist practices.
The school acknowledges the deep wounds of racism that have long plagued the country, and it recognizes that it has more work to do to combat racism and foster inclusive excellence. The school's community believes that equity, respect, and social justice are central to their well-being and the world.
Dean Strempel promises to listen with an open heart and maintain hope for deeper understanding, respect, and meaningful reform. She urges self-care during these distressing times, especially for people of color who have experienced psychological trauma. Resources for self-care are provided, and the importance of finding comfort together in shared humanity and the hope for justice is emphasized.
To facilitate this change, the school has established several initiatives. The School of Music’s Anti-Racism Task Force, a group within the school dedicated to addressing issues of racism and promoting anti-racist practices, is one such initiative. Another is the Anti-Racism Book Club, organized to facilitate learning and discussion around anti-racism topics.
Dean Strempel also encourages everyone to engage in continuous education and self-reflection to better understand and dismantle racist structures. She believes that until they listen to the voice of the unheard and respond with justice, they will not know true peace.
The school values the work of its scholars and musicians who engage in important work concerning the problems of racism and societal disparities. Resources for understanding and healing, including those shared by the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, are also offered as tools for understanding and healing.
In this challenging time, the call to action is to recognize and support the Black community, who are experiencing pain due to hatred, prejudice, and racism. Affirming Black lives without inducing trauma is encouraged. Resources are available for Black people who are struggling during this painful week.
The leader believes that until true peace is achieved, the school's work is far from over. The importance of solidarity and support in these challenging times cannot be overstated. The school acknowledges the need for support and solidarity, and it stands with the Black community in their fight against racism.
The School of Music recognizes the importance of continuous education and self-development in dismantling racist structures, and encourages everyone to engage in self-reflection for a deeper understanding of anti-racism. To further promote these practices, the school has established initiatives like the School of Music’s Anti-Racism Task Force and the Anti-Racism Book Club for learning and discussion on anti-racism topics.
