Now, as the push for police reform, defunding and abolition gains traction amid nationwide protests, the Student Police Advisory Board has decided that it needs to resolve the tension amongst UPD and students by asking students directly for their advice on how to facilitate engagement between them.
President Ryan acknowledged that this would be disappointing news for some, but the safety of the members of Class of 2020 and everyone else is the main priority.
Many University students and organizations have been contributing to the Black Lives Matter movement by organizing fundraisers for both local and national bail funds, as well as general funds and collectives regarding travel, disaster and relief, business and legal assistance.
Board members discussed the creation of a required class on racial equity — an idea first proposed by the Black Student Alliance after white supremacists rallied on Grounds and in Charlottesville on Aug. 11 and 12, 2017 and that has been repeatedly demanded since.
