Revd Chris McDermott, Lead Chaplain for the University of Sussex
The University of Sussex Chaplaincy represents people across various faith traditions and communities. Diversity and belief in the dignity of all human beings are core values motivating our multifaith team of chaplains. We are here for the whole campus community regardless of individuals’ backgrounds or whether or not they adhere to a religious belief.
We therefore want to express our sadness and anger at yet another act of police violence in the killing of George Floyd. Though occurring in the USA the ripple effects are felt among our black students and members of staff at the University.
At a time when black people are already feeling vulnerable in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic disproportionately affecting their communities, it is particularly urgent to let them know that we stand unequivocally in solidarity with them in the present situation causing pain to so many and look forward to opportunities for concretely expressing this solidarity alongside them in the future.
If any members of our campus community feel that they would value support at this time please get in touch with either the Chaplaincy (C.McDermott@sussex.ac.uk) or the BAME staff network (BAME-Staff@sussex.ac.uk)
Fr. Christopher McDermott
Lead Chaplain, University of Sussex