Real Talk Series
The gut-wrenching video of George Floyd being murdered by police, following the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and others, has once again opened the festering wound of America's original sin - racism. We are a long way from the America where we are all judged by the content of our character and not the color of our skin.
African American members of our American family are hurting from the assault on their humanity and centuries of enduring injustices. This reality must bring together Americans of all backgrounds to condemn acts of racial injustice.
This is a moment to acknowledge the pain and frustration and commit to action. All members of UNF's community who enjoy privileges can became allies for social change. To echo the words of UNF President Szymanski, "For our students, faculty and staff not of color, please self-reflect, educate yourself about your biases, whether they are conscious or subconscious, and use your knowledge to help make a positive difference."
A moment of crisis can bring out the best in all us. We can choose to become part of the solution. We can choose to become agents of change working to move our country towards a more perfect union.The Commission of Diversity and Inclusion (CODI) is launching a new series that will facilitate dialogue on difficult questions, which for too long have gone unanswered. Our series titled, REAL TALK, is aimed at inviting small groups of diverse students, faculty and staff to engage in a virtual conversation over Zoom. The focus of the conversations is to listen to our students, faculty, and staff. Together, we want to write where we all go next. What changes we expect from UNF and from our community will be guided by your voice and your aspirations. Each REAL TALK session will last for about 75 minutes. Participation is limited and registration is required. A Zoom link will be emailed to registrants 24 hours before the start of the session.
Session for students:
Tuesday, June 9 from 3 - 4:15 p.m. (Closed)
Monday, June 15 from 4 to 5:15 p.m. (Closed)
Sessions for faculty and staff:
Thursday, June 11 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. (Closed)
Tuesday, June 16 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. (Closed)
All Summer A sessions are now closed. New sessions for Summer B will be scheduled for mid-July. Please check back for the listing of additional sessions.
Questions may be directed to CODI@unf.edu.