Solidarity with our Black Community

This page includes:

L&S Advising's Statement of Solidarity with our Black Community

As Chancellor Carol Christ and Vice Chancellor for Equity and Inclusion Oscar Dubón, Jr., said in their statement on Friday, May 29th, 2020, “we offer heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the victims of the racially-motivated violence that is taking place in various communities across America.”

L&S Advising recognizes the devastating impact of systemic racism and the far-reaching historical roots of discrimination in the United States. We acknowledge that the continued injustice is currently underscored by the backdrop of a pandemic that is disproportionately harming Black Americans.

We commit to serving our Black community in better ways. 

Specifically, L&S Advising commits to the following actions in the weeks, months, and years to come:

  • Providing increased access to academic advising to Black students by partnering with the African American Student Development Office (AASD) and the Centers for Educational Equity and Excellence

  • Fostering and honoring the work of our Black advisers who are dedicated to supporting Black students and the work of advisers who are allies and accomplices for Black and other marginalized populations.

  • Increasing the cultural humility of our staff by introducing training on anti-Blackness, anti-racism, and microaggressions.

  • Engaging administrators and deans in conversations and actions that address issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

L&S Advising remains committed to:

  • Hiring and retaining equity-minded and social justice oriented staff.

  • Acknowledging that representation matters, and that staff of color are a value add to our students of color and to the entire community. 

  • Continuing the lifelong journey of engaging in self-reflection -- and taking accountability for how our systems impact the educational experience of Black and other marginalized students -- via professional development focused on issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and justice.

We see you and invite you to connect with us.

Progress Report

April 2021

To ensure accountability and action behind our statement, we have developed a progress report of both our office and campus efforts towards equity and inclusion.  We have taken our cue from scholars in the fields of educational social justice, diversity, equity & inclusion to develop our statement and list our actions to date. While our actions do not indicate that our work is done, we are transparent in our efforts and include links of resources to help members of the campus community support their own healing and self-care. 

To view the actions L&S Advising has taken, we welcome you to view our full progress report. 

·····································

While we affirm the resilience and strength of our Black students and their communities, we highlight the following wellness resources:

Wellness & Reporting

Adapted from the statement by Chancellor Christ and Vice Chancellor Dubón.

  • Stay Well Together: Through the Stay Well Together initiative, students can find a comprehensive directory of on- and off-campus resources to support their overall wellness.  

  • Student Organizations: Our campus has numerous and diverse student organizations in which students may wish to get involved. You can explore at callink.berkeley.edu

  • COVID-19 Living Guide: If you or someone you know is experiencing financial, food, housing or other basic needs challenges, you can find support and services via the UC Berkeley Basic Needs Center COVID-19 Living Guide

  • CAPS: We acknowledge the grief, anger, sadness, helplessness, and outrage that these killings create in our community. If you would like support, please contact UC Berkeley Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Counselors are available for phone and video counseling appointments. There are also new online self-help tools. Visit the CAPS website, call CAPS at (510) 642-9494, or, when the Tang Center is closed, call the after-hours counseling line (855) 817-5667. CAPS employs mental health professionals trained to provide support to individuals from a wide array of identities, including traditionally marginalized or disenfranchised groups.

  • Centers for Educational Justice & Community Engagement: These centers provide space, programs, and services for Berkeley’s diverse student communities. Learn more at ejce.berkeley.edu/mcc or (510) 642-6528. 

  • Reporting: For information and support on reporting hate crimes or hate-motivated acts, visit stophate.berkeley.edu

·····································

We have heard from Black students that it could be helpful to share resources that increase awareness. We lift up those voices to encourage everyone to stay informed, take action, and continue learning about ways to support the Black communities:

Stay Informed & Take Action

Compiled by Alianza, APASA, BSFO, and the L&S Advising Staff