June 4, 2020

Dear students, 

We are writing this letter to you in solidarity with your efforts to condemn the murder of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery and so many more at the hands of the police or state-sanctioned vigilantes. We are with you in denouncing a corrupt justice system that for too long has enacted violence against Black people with impunity. We have witnessed in horror as law enforcement across this nation has tear-gassed and pepper sprayed young people, how they’ve used rubber bullets and other military grade weaponry against peaceful protesters from New York City to Los Angeles—and now here in Iowa City. We are with you, as you demand justice. 

On Dubuque Street last night near I-80, law enforcement showed no compassion as so many students and community members peacefully marched and chanted. We call on our elected officials in Iowa City and the state of Iowa to investigate law enforcement’s disproportionate use of force and hold them accountable for their actions. 

The U.S. Constitution protects your right to protest. Many of you have learned about this right in our classes. You’ve learned about the history and impact of social justice movements, collective action, and speaking truth to power. We have also discussed together that demanding justice is not easy. Protest is, by definition, disruptive of the status quo. Institutional forces will do all that they can to discourage this disruption and prevent you from creating a more just, equitable world. Some of these forces, as you know, include delegitimizing protest by drawing attention away from the structural violence that animates such a potent response. 

Together, we are powerful. These protests across the U.S. have inspired similar action in cities around the world, where people are appalled by anti-Black racism here and state violence unleashed on peaceful protesters in their own countries. We reject all hierarchies, especially those that negate Black life. Instead, we affirm the powerful movements building intersectional coalitions for justice in our communities and world.

The Gender, Women’s and Sexuality Studies Department at the University of Iowa joins you in condemning law enforcement’s use of force in our city and committing violence against you, our students, and others in our community. 

You are the reason we are here. Your courage and conviction inspire us. You challenge us to do better and be better. We will continue to support your demands for justice. In the classroom and in the streets, we are fighting alongside you. 

Until Victory,

Department of Gender, Women’s and Sexuality Studies

University of Iowa