[Prevscilist] A message of solidarity and peace

[Atika Khurana]

Dear PREV community,

The brutality and senselessness of George Floyd's death has shocked us 
as a nation. For some of us it has reopened wounds that had never 
healed. While the pain and anguish we are experiencing is overwhelming, 
how we respond to difficult situations is what makes us resilient. 
Personally, over the past few days I have been reflecting on my own 
values and what is it that we can do (through our actions, research, 
daily social interactions...) to move our society in closer alignment 
with principles of justice, fairness, and kindness. I believe that 
transformative and lasting change comes from a place of love and 
compassion for yourself and others, and not from violence and hatred. In 
that spirit, I want to encourage you to take care of yourself during 
this difficult time and reach out and support others. Please let the 
faculty know how we can best support you. Communicate to your 
instructors if you think you may need an extension on your final 
assignment.

It is easy to get frustrated, dejected, even angry given the 
circumstances. But we need to regain our emotional balance, and to quote 
Mahatma Gandhi, "be the change we want to see in the world"

Best,

Atika