This week, several events organized by students and faculty sought to call attention to racial injustice in the wake of the Sept. 20 shooting death of Keith Lamont Scott and subsequent local unrest.
Planned events on Tuesday and Wednesday culminated with a peaceful, candlelight vigil Wednesday night; organizers described the vigil as “inspirational and empowering.”
Approximately 100 people attended the “White Light Vigil” at the Barnhardt Student Activity Center food court.
Significant demonstrations were held throughout the day Wednesday, Sept. 28. At approximately 11 a.m., a group of students and faculty organized by Advocates for Change – a group formed by students in the Master of Social Work program – demonstrated behind Atkins Library, moving past the College of Health and Human Service to the Popp Martin Student Union (PMSU). That group linked up with others who were participating in a “blackout,” in which students, faculty and staff had been encouraged to leave their classes and offices to participate in the demonstration. That combined group then looped together through a portion of campus, returning to the front steps of the PMSU. Campus police estimated the procession at more than 400 people. The activities were orderly and peaceful.
At 4 p.m. Wednesday, the Music Department presented a brief public concert for healing and community at Belk Plaza, featuring the Pride of Niner Nation Marching Band. Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” was one of the selections played.
On Tuesday, Sept. 27, the School of Architecture, in conjunction with the local chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students, held a “teach-in” and student discussion on urban protests in Storrs Gallery. Professors Charles Davis and Jose Gamez opened the discussion with a presentation that touched on topics such as the representation of protests in the media, segregation in housing in the urban environment and the concept of public space.
Also on Tuesday, six dance students performed “We Hear You” at Belk Plaza. This work combined spoken word, music and movement to express solidarity with those who seek justice and equality.
“Our students showed that a serious message, thoughtfully delivered, can be heard,” said Chancellor Philip L. Dubois.