April 20, 2021

Dear OU Community,

A verdict for the Derek Chauvin trial has been announced, and we thought it would be important to provide our campus community with resources. Earlier this month, the long-awaited trial for Officer Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd began in Minneapolis, Minnesota. For so many of us, the trial has been difficult to watch. It feels as though we were collectively holding our breath until the verdict was delivered.

Over the past few weeks, devastating footage of violence occurred across the country and repeatedly on TV. It is easy to become numb to the pain many may be experiencing. Many of us are experiencing grief, anger, rage. For those in our community who identify as “people of color,” these incidents might land a little differently or feel more personal. Still, we can all experience PTS (Post Traumatic Stress), no matter who we are. Please take care of yourself and seek support if you need it. Consider what allyship looks like, and consider taking action that aligns and feels right for you.

We must continue to advocate for the communities that are historically marginalized and underserved. We must continue to be aware, be educated, and advocate for the voiceless among us. There is an emotional onus to witnessing horrific events repeatedly.

At OU, we are committed to cultivating a community of true belonging for students, faculty, and staff. If you need help, please use the attached resources as a guide. We want to continue creating and maintaining spaces of support for those in need.

Belinda Hyppolite

Belinda Higgs Hyppolite, Ed.D.

She/Her/Hers

Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion & Chief Diversity Officer

Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion