A Statement from the Department of English
The English Department at the George Washington University stands with people of color and with all of those expressing outrage against the recent and ongoing acts of violence, harassment, and injustice, which have a long and painful history in this country. We unequivocally condemn white supremacy and police brutality.
We encourage everyone to read the strong statement of condemnation and commitment issued by GWU’s Office for Diversity, Equity, and Community Engagement, which includes the following: “While many people continue to ask for a return to the “normal,” we know that for Black people and those from historically marginalized communities, that means a continuation of oppression, injustice, hate, and violence. We have to create something better. We have to raise higher.” (https://diversity.gwu.edu/).
In addition, the GWU Student Association has compiled a very helpful list of resources that can be accessed here: https://www.sa.gwu.edu/post/statement-in-solidarity-with-anti-racism-efforts
We will continue to combat racism through our teaching as well, and we invite you to explore with us a series of recommended texts that we will promote through our social media channels. Stay tuned for regular #recommendedreading posts from department faculty and for invitations to join in some informal reading groups that we plan to form as we continue to find ways, individually and as a group, to promote justice for oppressed members of our society.
As Dean Paul Wahlbeck emphasized in his statement to the community, we are open to your ideas about how we can best move forward through education, dialogue, and meaningful action. We value your input very much; please reach out to engldept@gwu.edu with your suggestions.
