A statement from Dean Jim Dewald of the Haskayne School of Business

As we watch the global protests around racial inequality, it is clear that we need to change. We are heartbroken, sad, and angry about the George Floyd case, but racial inequality is not just an American issue. Deep-seated racial injustices are prevalent as well in Canada and we must acknowledge those injustices. It’s past time that we stand with Indigenous peoples – and people of all races – against racial injustice. Black and Indigenous lives matter. We hear you. We support you.

Neale Donald Walsch wrote, “Yearning for a new way will not produce it. Only ending the old way can do that. You cannot hold onto the old all the while declaring that you want something new. The old will defy the new; the old will deny the new; the old will decry the new. There is only one way to bring in the new. You must make room for it.”

At Haskayne, we are committed to creating an environment that eliminates racial injustice; an environment where all faculty, staff, and students feel welcome and included. Our diversity is a strength. This year, we are developing an equity, diversity and inclusion strategy for the school, and the horrific incident that ignited these protests underscores how important this work is. Society is counting on the businesses of tomorrow to be equitable, diverse and inclusive. Our students are counting on us to do better. We must make room for the new.

You can help too. Call out racial injustice. Be self-aware. Think of concrete things you can do at home, school and work to educate yourself and others. Our leadership team is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We can do more. We can do better.

(Photo credit: Kelly Hofer)