We must do better

A message from President Michael R. Lovell

Dear Marquette community,

The tragic death of George Floyd in Minneapolis and recent similar, racist events have left our country, our city and our Marquette community reeling. I have spoken publicly about the lasting generational effects of trauma and racism. If we are ever going to stop this cycle of violence, we need to address the root causes of disparity and access in our community and nationwide.

As a Catholic, Jesuit institution of higher education, Marquette plays a critical leadership role in this necessary and difficult work through research, scholarship, service learning and, above all, the way we educate our students to be men and women for and with others.

Together, we must pledge to live our Guiding Values and celebrate the diversity of our Marquette community and alumni network nationwide. We must all commit to living our mission by standing in solidarity with our African American brothers and sisters.

We cannot stand for injustice. We must do better.

I urge you to read this moving reflection from Dr. William Welburn, vice president for inclusive excellence.

Now, more than ever, I wish we could be together in community. In these uncertain times, I invite you to join me this Tuesday, June 2, at 8:30 p.m. in attending a virtual St. Joan of Arc Mass for Healing, Reconciliation and Justice, to pray for an end to racism.

It is all of our responsibility to build a nurturing, inclusive community where all people feel safe, supported, welcomed and celebrated.

We are all Marquette.

Dr. Michael R. Lovell
President
Marquette University