June 02, 2020

In Solidarity: A Message from Dr. Utpal K. Goswami

Dear SBCC community,

The events playing out throughout the country once again reinforce that structural racism is endemic in our society. We have seen the sequence of events play out again and again. Yet, not much progress has been made to eradicate structural racism in this country. As we express our outrage at the brazen acts of violence against Black and African Americans, we must also commit ourselves to changing society for better.

Let us remember that the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor are the tip of the iceberg. Racist and violent acts are being perpetrated every day against Black and African Americans, people of color, and marginalized populations.  Let us stand and act in solidarity with our students and colleagues who have been impacted. SBCC as a community must do its part in changing society for better.

We must strengthen our commitment to equity as a guiding light in our actions. I reaffirm our commitment to applying an equity lens to improve all aspects of institutional life at SBCC. This work is particularly important for us here at SBCC where we have struggled to respond effectively to issues around race. I am personally committed to working to change that, and will need your help. We must all do our part. Please join me in making SBCC a place where equity and justice is felt by all. Community colleges have been at the forefront of opening doors and offering hope to people who have been disadvantaged and marginalized. We must never forget that we are committed to the success of each and every student. Let us make sure that we are a safe and welcoming environment for everyone and that no one is disadvantaged or made to feel differently at SBCC.

In Solidarity,
Utpal

Utpal K. Goswami, Ph. D.
Superintendent/President
Santa Barbara City College