Special Message: April 21, 2021

Office of the President

Good evening colleagues,

This morning our leaders across Fresno – from pastors from African American Clergy Caucus, law enforcement and our mayor came together to call for justice and pray.  Pastor B.T. Lewis of Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church said, “We also ask that as we respond, that we would respond in a way that is peaceful, in a way that is nonviolent and in a way that is conducive to changing the elements of our justice system that have not always been fair to people of color.”

After the verdict in Derek Chauvin murder trial, Chancellor Oakley stated, “today, some measure of justice has been rendered in the murder of George Floyd. While the jury’s work in this case has concluded, the work ahead of us as a nation and in the California Community College must move forward with the urgency and moral clarity that our students demand and deserve.”

Fresno City College is comprised of students and staff from all walks of life and different identities.  Today, we collectivity watched history in the making. I urge us all to join in the collective work to create change in ourselves and our communities. I ask you all to continue to stand in solidarity in the fight against racism. We must not stop challenging oppression, work towards creating an equitable society and advance peace and healing.  We have a long way to go, but I know that our future will be better, more just and more equitable because of your actions today and tomorrow.

Stay well,

Dr. Carole Goldsmith
President