The exchange of ideas and discourse is at the heart of our mission here at the University of Oregon.  In that spirit, I am pleased to share Vice President for Equity and Inclusion, Yvette Alex-Assensoh’s recent opinion essay titled, “Are Black Men America’s Proverbial Canaries in the Coal Mine?”   Her essay offers a perspective on the two recent grand jury verdicts and their implications for American democracy.

I encourage people to read it. Dr. Alex-Assensoh is one of several UO experts who have recently shared their thoughts on this issue, as you can read here on Around the O.  

I am proud to share these perspectives and to encourage a civil, peaceful, and respectful dialogue among our campus community members.

Sincerely,

Scott Coltrane
Interim President