The University Senate of Michigan Technological University
Resolution 66-20
Emergency Resolution: University Senate Support for Black Lives Matter and Justice for All
(Voting Units: All)
Submitted by: Senate Executive Committee
Presented by: Michael Mullins
WHEREAS, in alignment with the mission and values of Michigan Technological University, we as the University Senate of Michigan Technological University believe that Black Lives Matter and support principles of social and racial justice for our students, staff, faculty and all members of our community; and
WHEREAS, we mourn the continuing deaths of African Americans at the hand of law enforcement officers, and support protesters across the country who peacefully express their frustration and outrage at the killings of people of color; and
WHEREAS, we recognize and support the importance of societal prosperity and peace for all, and denounce the overcriminalization of people of color which does not lead to a harmonious, fair and sustainable society; and
WHEREAS, we know the importance of our police and support their efforts to improve relationships with minority communities, but acknowledge that problems still exist, and improvements are needed; and
WHEREAS, we believe that Michigan Technological University should support racial justice and harmony, and promote equal justice for all, combating institutional racism in all its forms; and
WHEREAS, we recognize that diversity and inclusion have not yet been achieved at Michigan Technological University;
BE IT RESOLVED that:
We, the University Senate of Michigan Technological University urge all members of
the university community to openly discuss and explore in forums, classrooms, and
other campus settings issues of social equality, racial injustice, and institutional
racism; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the University Senate will promote and support peaceful Black Lives Matter forums and demonstrations; will facilitate dialogue between local and campus law enforcement and our students, faculty and staff; and will assist in advancing a community policing model for our campus community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Michigan Technological University show solidarity with our minority students and employees by making Martin Luther King Day a campus-wide holiday for students with paid leave for staff and faculty; and by establishing a designated fund to hire and retain a more diverse faculty and staff.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the University Senate of Michigan Technological University will foster equal representation for minority students, staff, and faculty in the spirit of true shared governance in all its undertakings.
June 17, 2020