ASCB Condemns Racial Violence; Demands Change

Over the last week, particularly this past weekend, we watched with heavy hearts the killing of George Floyd while in the custody of the Minneapolis police department and the resulting protests. We want to express our sadness and anger, our condemnation of racist violence, and our solidarity with the Black community. 

The callous disregard for human life that led to Mr. Floyd’s death and the unjust deaths of so many other African Americans before him is unconscionable. We understand why our fellow citizens, in big and small cities around America, are taking to the streets so that their voices are heard, and with them, we demand change in our country. 

The ASCB has a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity that is reflected in the Society’s mission statement. But we recognize that it is important to do more than just write a pledge. We must do better and look at our own practices and culture to do more to combat systemic racism. With that in mind, we will work with our governing Council and our membership to identify specific actions that the ASCB can take to understand the history of racism in our society & scientific field, to work towards remedies that address the exclusion & inequity established by that history, and to support efforts to prevent the continued perpetuation of racism in our society.  To accomplish such a tall order, we acknowledge that we still have much to learn, and are willing to listen.

Throughout the anger and violence of this past weekend, we were heartened and inspired by many moments of hope. The ASCB reaffirms its commitment to make our world more just, equitable, and safe for everyone. We hope you will join us today with your own commitment to this cause so that we can share together our hope of an America rid of racial discrimination once and for all.

Eva Nogales, ASCB President

Andrew Murray,  ASCB Past President

Ruth Lehmann,  ASCB President-elect

Erika Shugart, ASCB CEO 

**UPDATED JUNE 2, 2020