(DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)
As you undoubtedly know, the death of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minneapolis last week has set off days of protests across the United States. Unfortunately, the justifiable outrage felt by so many at the death of another unarmed black man, has been overshadowed by acts of violence and destruction.Over the weekend, the disorder in Chicago resulted in damage to property and looting in the Loop—including extensive graffiti and broken windows at three DePaul buildings: the DePaul Center (1 E. Jackson Blvd.), the Lewis Center (25 E. Jackson Blvd.), and the CDM Center (243 S. Wabash Ave).
The broken windows in our buildings have been boarded up. We will continue to monitor the activity in the Loop and work with the Chicago Police Department and local authorities, as needed.
The pain of injustice is only deepened by the reckless behavior of those who would commandeer such a moment to loot and destroy, and perhaps further divide an already fractured nation. Although I am disappointed that the actions of a few will detract from the focus on the core issue—the need to protect and respect the human dignity of all people—the DePaul University community will stand together in solidarity against racism and hate.
Please take care and stay safe.
A. Gabriel Esteban, Ph.D.
President