Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The faculty and staff of Purdue Bands & Orchestras seek to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all students – today and always, but we recognize we have work to do. We must do all we can to address instances of discrimination, racial disparity and unfair practices and promote equity and inclusion. This begins with having honest conversations, exploring our implicit/explicit biases, and developing a plan of action and accountability. As we actively explore ways to increase outreach and confront systemic barriers that materialize due to racism and discrimination at Purdue University, we will continue to listen and learn. Purdue Bands & Orchestras stands against racism and hate. We stand with Black students, the Black community of Purdue and communities of color. And we are committed to change. On June 18^th, our department began a serious dialogue on the stand we must take to combat racism within our corner of Purdue. Our faculty and staff will meet throughout the summer to create an action plan, which we will share publicly before the beginning of the 2020 academic year. Until then, we share your concerns and pledge to create an environment in Purdue Bands & Orchestras where our Black students are free from the pain of violence and racial injustice.