Statement from the Woodbury University Library

The Woodbury University Library condemns the recent violence and systemic racism levied against Black people and all People of Color. The disproportionate effect of the COVID-19 crisis on communities of color, and the recent killing of George Floyd and too many others are only a few examples centuries of systemic racism and violence in our country.

“Wherever it resides, racism leads to degradation. It weakens our institutions and destroys our communities and is one of the greatest obstacles to our mission ‘to enhance learning and ensure access to information to all’.”  [source ALA]

We also stand with the American Library Association in condemning “the violence that protesters and journalists across the country are facing while exercising their First Amendment rights. The former raise their voices to demand justice; the latter seek to document and share history as it is being made.  The First Amendment promises freedom of speech, freedom of the press, the right to assemble, and the right to petition the government, all of which are essential freedoms of our democracy and vital components of intellectual freedom.”

The Library supports engagement in meaningful change by providing students, faculty, and staff with the information tools needed to be effective leaders and allies. Some of our undertakings include developing lists of books and videos focused on anti-racism and social justice; creating a social justice research guide; and working on making our collections more inclusive. We also ensure that our staff and faculty reflect the University’s dedication to diversity and equity. Together, we can work to change the systemic culture that engenders hatred and racism.