UTA community gathers to protest racism, call for social justice
Students, employees and faculty marched across The University of Texas at Arlington’s campus earlier this week in solidarity with demonstrators across the nation protesting against systemic racism, social injustice and the oppression of minority groups.
Approximately 300 people gathered outside the UTA School of Social Work on Monday, June 8, holding signs, chanting and listening to speeches.
“Social work has a mandate to stand up for social justice,” said Jandel Crutchfield, assistant professor in the School of Social Work and an event organizer. “Social workers have been advocates, historically, for racial justice. Social work as a profession has a duty to stand up on behalf of any oppressed population. So as social workers, we decided to bring the community together against racism.
“If we fail to speak about racism, we're complicit in its maintenance. We want to make sure that we're not complicit.”
Jasmine Gaines, social work student and vice president of UTA’s African American Social Workers Student Alliance, also attended the demonstration.
“When speaking about the Black Lives Matter movement, there's just so much to say,” she said. “We can talk about policy, about history, about education, but it goes back to a basic principle: Our lives matter.
“It's our job as social workers to speak against injustices, especially injustices against oppressed populations. It's important that we all come out for the cause and seek change and inclusion.”
Kelli Vincent, director of the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, said change can begin by having conversations about social issues, listening to those affected and showing support.
“It is important to stand alongside our students,” she said. “In our office, we have work to do, but we have definitely started the conversation. We look forward to continuing the dialog to make sure our Black members feel included and heard in our sorority and fraternity community, and the UTA community as a whole.”
Michael A. Isom, a graduate student in social work, said he hoped the demonstration sent a message of unity, peace and compassion.
“Compassion for innocent lives lost should be a natural human response within our society,” he said. “I encourage those who denounce this movement to search their souls and find empathy for those suffering. UTA and the community at large can implement change by having truthful discussions and having environments where we can engage in those conversations. Ultimately, we want people to understand that everyone deserves dignity, honor and respect.”
School of Social Work Dean Scott Ryan said this is a time for listening, reflecting and committing to positive steps forward. “We recognize the pain, fear, anger and sense of hopelessness students, alumni and many in our communities are experiencing right now,” he said. “I believe social workers are in a position to demand and influence change while standing strong against racism, hatred, bigotry and all forms of injustice.”