Statement from CSRPC on the killing of Tyre Nichols
Statement from the Center for the Study of Race, Politics, and Culture on the killing of Tyre Nichols
January 30, 2023
Once again, we bear witness to the ruthless and lethal assault of a fellow human being, Tyre Nichols, by police officers who are charged to serve and protect. Despite the last two years of acute attention on policing and the ongoing protests against the pandemic of systemic racism in our nation, efforts to create meaningful change fail to outpace the speed and power of systemic racism that fuels an unending torrent of violence and murder. Such ongoing assaults on members of our communities can no longer shock or bewilder anyone. Last year, police in the United States killed at least 1,192 people, or about 100 people a month. The victims of these murders are disproportionately Black and brown.[1]
We grieve along with Tyre Nichols’ family. We are outraged, again. The larger society and grind culture compel us to go back to business as usual. To be silent. We cannot. Our communities need and deserve time to grieve, rage, and heal.
Let us remember Mr. Nichols as he presented himself to the world: a beloved son, photographer, skateboarder and hopeful young Black man.
If you want to be in community with others to share difficult feelings, plan mutual aid, or get information about additional resources, please feel free to stop by CSRPC, 5733 S. University Ave. on Tuesday, Jan. 31 between 3:00-5:00 pm. CSRPC will provide space, warm beverages and snacks.
[1] Mapping Police Violence Database
Campus resources:
Center for Identity + Inclusion
Students may call 773.702.3625 to reach our Therapist-on-Call, who is available 24/7 to discuss students’ concerns and determine next steps for support.
Students also have access to TimelyCare’s24/7 on-demand service, TalkNow.
Staff and Faculty Assistance Program (SFAP) provided by Perspectives Ltd.
Staff and faculty may call Perspectives Ltd. at 800.456.6327 to speak with a trained counselor about your needs. You also have access to 24/7 Text-Based Counseling by texting 800.456.6327. You have 24-hour access to an online tool (www.perspectivesltd.com) that provides information on a variety of topics.