7.9.16 | Dear Students: the Pulse shooting

7.9.16

Dear CCAD Family,

It is with a heavy heart that I write you all -- so soon after our country's birthday -- to express my sorrow about what a tragic summer it has been for America.

Forty-nine killed last month at a gay bar in Orlando. Two black men killed by police this week in Baton Rouge and St. Paul. Five police officers killed in Dallas. And these are just the recent headlines.

I'm sure that many of you are grieving these senseless murders and are as saddened as I am by the fear and hatred at the root of the tragedies.

Unfortunately, I feel that these deaths are not isolated incidents but extreme peaks in an all too pervasive climate in our culture. A climate weighed down by distrust, ignorance, and systemic prejudice.

Fortunately, I truly believe that we hold the antidote. As artists, designers, educators, and leaders, we are creators and cultural producers. We have the opportunity -- no, the responsibility -- to use our talents and resources to make a positive difference in our communities and a meaningful impact on the world.

I hope that you will remember your powers during these difficult times and rely on your community here at CCAD for support. We are already planning events for the fall when students return to campus, but as we all prepare for this upcoming semester, I encourage you to look for ways to enhance and be models of the community that makes us so strong.

In compassion and solidarity,

Melanie