A STATEMENT FROM THE COLUMBIA MEN'S BASKETBALL STUDENT-ATHLETES
On behalf of the members of the Columbia men's basketball family, we would like to express our outrage and sadness regarding the senseless murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and countless others who have fallen victim to racial injustice. While these tragic events are only the most recent, the attitudes and institutional structures which facilitate them are not – black humanity has been blatantly ignored and devalued in this country long before its inception. With the current social unrest, we want to voice that we stand for equality and denounce injustice. This is a pressing issue and we must seek out change immediately. We are brothers and sisters no matter the color of our skin, therefore, it is vital to stand united for the same cause. We also must acknowledge the indifference continuously exhibited by institutions to the lives of black citizens. As a team, we ask that you listen, accept and positively engage with all the frustrations and grievances during this time. To dismiss the blood and tears, or to remain silent, is to tolerate oppression. Silence allows this storm to rage on and continue devastation within this nation. We must continue to work together and educate each other in the areas where we are ignorant.
To our black teammates, black fans and black community members we recognize the terror inflicted upon you and your fellow brothers and sisters. We stand with you during these troubling times. Together, we will continue to demand the promised justice that our country desperately deserves.
We write this out of love, passion and sincerity.
The members of the Columbia men's basketball family.
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STATEMENT FROM HEAD COACH JIM ENGLES
I am deeply saddened and disturbed over the tragic events of the last several weeks. There is simply no place for this type of racial injustice in the world. Our team has come together and had discussions over these social issues. These were not easy conversations to have, but they are necessary if we want to incite a change. As a family, we are committed to doing our part to make sure we come out of these challenges as better people and a society. I will continue to listen and support our student-athletes as we work together to be advocates for equality.
