Dear Colleagues,

At GADE, we have watched the events in Minneapolis and nationwide with deep concern and increasing alarm. Lives lost, many more injured, and widespread suffering have left communities shaken and grieving. We are heartbroken by the violence and senseless loss of life. It is especially troubling to recognize that this suffering stems from governmental policy and action.

When people are afraid to walk down the street, unsure of whether they will be safe even if they have followed all relevant laws, the ability to learn, work, and thrive is severely challenged. More and more, communities around the country are living in terror. Citizen or not, the right to peaceful protest and due process are fundamental and are enshrined in our constitution. Both are being rampantly trampled in the current environment.

Violence toward those who protest is not new. Many who stood up for civil rights, opposed wars, fought for AIDS advocacy, and, more recently, marched for Black Lives Matter know this well. As social workers, we know that peaceful protest is an advocacy tool that raises awareness and gives voice to righteous outrage. We know doctoral students in social work feel the challenges of this moment acutely. What is happening is contrary to social work values and basic human decency.

We are encouraged to see leaders from across the political spectrum calling for transparency, accountability, and an honest investigation of what is unfolding in Minneapolis and beyond. We remain hopeful that this moment will prompt a return to policies rooted in justice, compassion, and respect for human rights. We hope for better days.

Signed,
The GADE Board of Directors
Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work