PNW Community Statement on Racial Injustice
Following the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless other Black people across the country and the protests that have resulted from these injustices, the Purdue University Northwest Community would like to extend our support to our Black students, faculty, staff, families and communities. We are disheartened and outraged by these acts and stand with those trying to make positive change. PNW condemns white supremacy, systematic racism and violence against people of color.
We are committed to the free expression of ideas at PNW. We believe that academics and freedom flourish best when our community is assured of their rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. PNW strives to be a safe place for all. The university encourages the free exchange of ideas and peaceful assembly on the Hammond and Westville campuses.
We seek to support our students, faculty and staff who feel marginalized. We will continue to support Educational Opportunity Programs/TRIO programs like Student Support Services and the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program. We will support faculty research and community involvement that address bias and racial violence.
The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion will continue to work with search committees to implement best practices that emphasize diversity in faculty and staff hiring processes, with renewed focus on hiring Black faculty and staff. We will continue to connect students to resources and available scholarships through the Office of the Dean of Students. Student Government Association is committed to hosting monthly open forums, including one each semester with the Chancellor and Provost, to amplify student voices.
In the weeks ahead, we will continue to listen and learn from those who feel they need better support from the university and urge all students, faculty and staff to work to eradicate the injustice of racism and white supremacy at both the individual and systemic levels. Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, President of the North Carolina NAACP best said, “Some issues are not left versus right or liberal versus conservative – they are right versus wrong.” We will no longer tolerate these injustices.
Chancellor Thomas L. Keon and Senior Leadership Team
Student Government Association
Faculty Senate
Management and Professional Staff Advisory Committee
Campus Support and Service Staff Advisory Committee