Dear BSA Community,
Reading the statements of Black students on the @BlackAtBSA page, brings into sharp relief the racist and thoughtless comments and actions of some staff and students. Nobody in our community should experience this in a school devoted to developing the artistic and creative capabilities that live in all of us.
I recognize that we have not done enough to build a community for everyone and I am sorry that our students have lived through racist comments and actions. We must do better. I also must say that it took longer than I would have wished to bring my thoughts together for this message. I am sorry for the delay.
BSA will engage in anti-racist training for students and staff once we begin school again at 712 Cathedral. We will immediately begin planning this action and others to make BSA a safe and invigorating environment for everyone.
The BSA Board of Trustees will also now include a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. A letter from Board Chair, Li-Wen Kang, with more information and dates for upcoming listening forums will follow later this week.
I look forward to working with the Black Student Union and their advisors to make plans and envision a better BSA—for all of its students.
Sincerely,
Chris Ford
