News

Dear School of Theatre and Music Students, Staff, and Faculty,

We write to affirm that we, a diverse community of artists and educators, condemn racism is all its terrible forms. We stand together, angry and heartbroken, with all who have been, and continue to be, exploited and harmed by systemic racism, brutality, and injustice.

We grieve with the families of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and the countless others mourning the murder of loved ones.

Each of us is choosing how to participate in the great political drama unfolding in our streets. To our UIC students, we want to say your voices are important. We hear you and we want to support you all in whatever way we can. Please know that we are checking email and encourage you to reach out should you find it useful or comforting.

In addition, on Monday Dean Rebecca Rugg sent a message encouraging all to take action “each in the ways we are called upon” by supporting businesses, attending rallies, raising awareness, and showing solidarity from home. She also highlighted that resources exist at UIC to support you and your safety and wellbeing. She reminded students that general resources can be found here, and mental health services can be found here. She also reminded staff and faculty that UIC offers the Employee Assistance Program.

Take care of yourselves, and each other.

Christine Dunford
Louis Bergonzi
Yasen Peyankov