Statement from Dr. Isom on Buffalo and Laguna Woods shootings.

Each mass shooting, each incident of White supremacist domestic terrorism, and each race-based act of violence is singularly heartbreaking, singularly painful. The escalation and the sheer numbers of them we have seen in the last several months, including the pair of tragedies from this past weekend, are unimaginable and grotesque. Cal Poly mourns for the victims of the attacks in Buffalo and Laguna Woods and with all those impacted. For any on our campus whom these events have impacted, please access the myriad of campus resources for support and assistance and draw on the healing that can come from our communities, our friends, and our families. 

Whether one has direct ties to these incidents or not, the fear, anger, and pain that accompany acts of violence based on one’s social identity are widespread and long-lasting. As a community, let us reflect on the best of our values of care for each other, grace in the face of tragedy, and let us continue to stand against racism and inequity wherever it is found.

Dr. Denise Isom
Interim Vice President for Diversity & Inclusion / Chief Diversity Officer