Topeka, Kan. – Washburn University’s first-generation students announced a peaceful unity walk to take place on the campus tomorrow, Thursday, June 4. beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The students are members of “We Are First” – the association of students who are the first in their families to attend college.
“Our students want to pay their respects to George Floyd with nine minutes of silence,” said Danielle Dempsey-Swopes, Washburn’s director of diversity and inclusion. “They want to honor the victims of police violence and encourage us to find a way forward to address systemic racism that is far too common in America.”
Dempsey-Swopes said this is particularly appropriate for Washburn University.
“Just yesterday, Washburn President Jerry Farley reminded us that the university’s founders understood the importance and value of multiple points of view from all people,” she said. “We’re proud that our students are putting those values into action."
The event will start at the Kuhne Bell Tower in the center of the campus where there will be a few speakers. They will then march toward Morgan Hall.
Anyone interested in participating is asked to bring signs and an open mind and desire for unity. In addition, participants should bring water and face masks to help reduce the spread of the Corona Virus. Everyone is also asked to remember to maintain social distancing.
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