Dear ASDA Members,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, ASDA mourns the death of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and all others that have lost their lives to racial injustices. Our thoughts are with their families and the communities that surround them.
ASDA stands in solidarity with the Black community and with all students against injustice.
As an association that serves to protect and advance the rights, interests and welfare of dental students, we do not tolerate racism or discrimination. Every person has the right to safety and well-being. We are all devastated by the events we have seen across the nation. It is difficult to watch the manifestation of the pain and suffering of so many.
It is the diverse experiences and perspectives of our association's more than 23,000 members that make ASDA a strong community and resource for all dental students. To those who have been affected by the recent events across our nation, we stand with you.
Human rights and equal opportunities for all are important. We empathize with all those who are experiencing loss and injustice. ASDA recognizes that systemic change is needed and the work ahead will be challenging. As dental students, we are responsible for the health and well-being of our patients and communities. We have a responsibility to reduce inequalities and barriers to care.
ASDA strives to cultivate a welcoming environment for students of all identities. We will continue to foster relationships among students and their communities as part of ASDA's Diversity and Inclusion Initiative. During these difficult times, let's work together towards a resolution to the many challenges the nation is facing.
We made the decision to postpone ASDA's annual Diversity Day this past Monday and all ASDA webinars for the time being. Over the past several days, communities across the nation have been impacted by events that have caused pain and suffering for so many. We recognize the need for people to self-reflect and process the losses and injustice we have witnessed. ASDA is being respectful of this pivotal moment in time and will notify you when events are rescheduled.
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