The University of Utah is proud to join Academics for Black Survival and Wellness Week‚ a “weeklong personal and professional development initiative for academics to honor the toll of racial trauma on Black people, resist anti-Blackness and white supremacy, and facilitate accountability and collective action.”

U leaders acknowledge the deep anger and hurt many students, staff and faculty are experiencing in the wake of the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and too many other victims of systemic oppression and violence. They are committed to addressing the pervasive racism and doing their part to support state leaders in shaping criminal justice reform and promoting social justice and equity.

Academics for Black Survival and Wellness is a call to action. It invites all academics to join in a collective effort to enhance the safety and wellness of Black students, staff, faculty and community members. Non-Black academics are encouraged to engage in training on anti-Black racism and white supremacy while Black academics engage in rest and resistance.

Beginning on Juneteenth—celebrated June 19, 2020, through Thursday, June 25, 2020—trainings will include readings, lectures, personal reflections and group dialogue with academics around the world. Participants are invited to share their experiences and invite colleagues to join using #Academics4BlackLives.

Follow Academics for Black Lives on Twitter and Instagram to learn more and visit their website to register for trainings.

For additional listening, check out the latest “URising” podcast, hosted by President Ruth V. Watkins. The Rev. France Davis and Meligha Garfield, director of the U’s Black Cultural Center, share their thoughts on historical events that have led to the current protests calling for racial equality, experiences of our campus community and ideas for how to make a difference.