April 20, 2021
A message from Father Sicard on the Derek Chauvin verdict
Dear Members of the Providence College Community:
We have all just learned of the jury verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer who has been convicted on all counts of the murder of George Floyd. This trial weighed heavily on the hearts and minds of many, especially the family and friends of Mr. Floyd, who had to endure the painful details and description of events leading to his death discussed in court. While the vast majority of police serve and protect us with honor, Mr. Floyd’s murder was sadly one of many acts of violence committed by rogue police against people of color, often in routine traffic stops. People are appropriately outraged as these acts have become commonplace in our cities and on our streets and suggest a callous disregard for human life. Meanwhile, the country seems to have no answer to the mass shootings that seem to occur weekly in schools and places of work and worship. This violence has risen to a level that is completely out of control. The loss of regard for human life is sinful as much as it is sad and frightening.
As president of Providence College, let me state unequivocally that we must decry the callous loss of life that we see so often in our cities and on our streets.
In the aftermath of the verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial, I encourage all members of our community to pray for peace and for an end to this senseless violence, and to support one another in kindness and respect.
Providence College is providing support and resources. Our chaplains, personal counselors, and other members of our Student Affairs staff will be available to students who are in need of such services (see below).
May our merciful God be a source of comfort and strength to our College and to our nation.
Fr. Kenneth Sicard, O.P.
President
Resources available:
- Students who wish to talk to a counselor can call the Personal Counseling Center at 401-865-2343. If you would like to speak with an after-hours crisis counselor, call 401-865-2343 and press option 2 when prompted.
- Members of the Chaplain’s Office are standing by at the Campus Ministry Office located in the lower level of St. Dominic Chapel to offer assistance to students, faculty, and staff.
- College employees can access services from our Employee Assistance Program. Contact New Directions at 800-624-5544, or visit the website at eap.ndbh.com and use the company code providencecollege (no space).
- The Office of IDEI and the staff of the Center at Moore Hall will be announcing additional responsive programming.
