CGC Statement of Solidarity

The Collective Greek Council at Oregon State University fully supports the Black Lives Matter movement. As an organization that was founded to foster inclusivity and empower members within the OSU Greek Community, we encourage our members to speak out against the injustice, racism, and inequality that has dominated the lives of the Black Community for centuries. 

 

We must come together to support the Black Community and fight systemic oppression alongside them. To do this, we encourage you to take the time to educate yourself, your friends, and your family about the prevalence of anti-blackness and privilege in our society. Be open to recognizing the privilege you may possess, and use it to amplify the voices of the Black Community. It is okay to make or to have made mistakes -- unlearning problematic behaviors and patterns takes time and commitment. What is more important is to apologize when mistakes are made, listen to those around you, and make a commitment to change your behavior moving forward. It is important to understand that it is not enough to be “not racist” but to actively live and promote a life of anti-racism. Remember, “Ally” is not a noun: it is a verb and requires dedicated action. 

 

The time to act, support, and advocate is now. As Desmond TuTu once said, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” In the continued fight against oppression, remember to check on your peers, especially your Black friends, peers, partners, colleagues, advisors, etc. that are experiencing a traumatic moment in history. 

 

To our Black members: we see you, we hear you, we support you, and we care about you.

 

Black Lives Matter. Black Trans Lives Matter. 

We stand with you in solidarity.

 

 

If you would like resources to learn more about how you can educate, support, and advocate, the CGC has created a document full of resources for you to use. You can share these resources with friends, family, and community members to continue the education, support, and advocation.