On the Chauvin Trial Verdict
Members of the NYCC Community:
Last evening a jury reached a guilty verdict regarding the May 2020 murder and manslaughter of Mr. George Floyd while in police custody.
This is an exigent moment in our country's history of structural racism and injustice. As Mr. Floyd's final words "I can't breathe" resonate across the nation, we must together confront the discrimination and violence that continues to suppress, injure and -- in far too many cases -- end the lives of Black, Asian, Latinx, and Indigenous people, and people of color.
Today we realize a small moment of accountability for Mr. Floyd and his family, but the harsh reality of Mr. Floyd's loss remains and no trial or court can erase his senseless death. We also grieve for the many other BIPOC people who have died through racially motivated violence. As individuals and as a community, we are saddened by the frequency of this brutality and tragedy. We must demand, and do, better.
Though Mr. Floyd's murder trial is now over, the work to combat systemic racism continues. As always, our College rejects racism, discrimination and violence. We continue to dedicate ourselves to the support of that which is moral and right, and to the pursuit of justice and equity for all. As we process last night's verdict, we reflect, we grieve, and look forward to the work ahead. We must, and will, act to ensure all people may live with the dignity, safety and humanity they deserve.
In solidarity,
Dr. Michael Mestan
President, New York Chiropractic College
NOTE: If you are in need of support around recent or related events, NYCC counselors are here to help. You can contact the counseling office at counseling@northeastcollege.edu or 315-568-3064; you can also call 2-1-1 for Lifeline, or contact your local mental health provider. Employees are also able to reach out to our Employee Assistance Program through Human Resources. If you are a witness to or victim of an instance of bias or discrimination, please report the incident to the College, either by contacting Campus Safety or via our Community Reporting forms.