Statement of Solidarity

June 3, 2020

To the members of the Institute of Fine Arts Community,

This has been an especially painful week, filled with horrifying news and images that are now seared into all of our memories. We have witnessed yet another brutal murder of an African American, George Floyd, following the recent killings of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and many others. This has caused enormous pain, suffering, and rage within the Black community, which is shared by all those who support justice, equality, freedom, and peace for everyone. At this time when the outbreak of the coronavirus has disproportionately affected people of color and other vulnerable groups, demonstrating the disastrous effects of systemic racism, we should be working together to create an egalitarian and just society. We stand in solidarity with all those who fight against racism and police brutality.

The Institute of Fine Arts at NYU was founded largely by émigré professors fleeing violence and oppression in 1930s and 40s Europe. We continue to support this tradition and denounce the persistence of racism in its various forms, including attacks on people of Asian descent who have been subjected to abuse and discrimination since the outbreak of Covid-19.

In the light of recent events, our teaching and public programs will give renewed attention to issues of racial injustice and violence, and we will continue to foster communication and other activities that focus on these important issues.

Sincerely,
Christine Poggi
Judy and Michael Steinhardt Director