June 2, 2020
Dear Colleagues,
We have recently received statements from Provost Lee and Dean Olinto regarding recent tragic events in Minneapolis, and indeed, throughout our country. I urge you to read these statements. Please know that, alongside the PSD and the University, the Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics and the KICP remain committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. As Dean Olinto states, "Our Division aims to foster an inclusive and creative intellectual environment that promotes diversity of thought and create a culture of respect, inclusion, and wellness." At every level, in every interaction, we must now do more to build just and equitable communities; to channel our convictions into meaningful action; to dismantle systems of oppression within our fields and nation. Together, we must strive to heal wounds in our society and support and embrace our colleagues, especially at this time our black colleagues and students.
John Carlstrom, Chair, Astronomy & Astrophysics
Rocky Kolb, Director, Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics