#OneRamily Social Justice Plan
 
Dear Rams,
 
Like many of you, the past few months have felt like a blur. With information, restrictions, and details changing daily, the words communication and flexibility have been my go-to reminders in dealing with what life is throwing at us. Amidst all of the COVID-19 uncertainty, there has been another issue disturbing me: the racial and societal injustices plaguing our nation and community.
 
I am saddened our nation requires such extreme racist events for our eyes to be opened to the injustices that have been taking place for centuries. The developments of the past week have echoed the pressing need for equality and justice for all. The actions of athletes around the country demonstrate the earnest time we are in as not only a country but as a Fordham Athletics community. I realize we are unable to go back and change the past, but I can confidently say Fordham Athletics will take the proper steps to ensure a better future for our minority student-athletes, coaches, staff, and employees.
 
This summer the Fordham Athletics department has engaged in open, honest, and difficult dialogue with our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and administrators. From these conversations, it is evident there is work to be done. On June 3, 2020, a task force of Fordham Athletics administrators, coaches, and student-athletes formed to create a plan to address and combat systemic racism. We acknowledge Black Lives Matter and understand there needs to be action associated with our words.
 
These conversations and discussions have led to the Fordham Athletics #OneRamily Social Justice Plan, which strives to create a more inclusive, welcoming, and supportive environment for the entire Fordham Athletics community. .
 
Fordham Athletics will report bi-yearly on January 15 and July 15 on the impact and progress of the plan and any future action steps. These action steps will be measured by numerous methods, including but not limited to surveys, participation numbers, initiatives commenced, initiatives concluded, new diversity hires and position promotions, new voters, and opportunities offered. Every year following the July 15 report, Fordham Athletics will outline action steps for the upcoming academic year to continue the fight for racial equality in our nation and in our Fordham Athletics community.
 
In order for this plan and any future initiatives to make a change, we need our student-athletes to speak up when something isn't right. Whether it's speaking up for yourself, a teammate, or keeping us accountable in our efforts, we need the entire Fordham Athletics community to commit to boldly standing up for justice.
 
This plan is just the beginning of sustainable initiatives, programs, and action steps Fordham Athletics will be taking to combat racial inequalities. I realize change will take time, effort, and dedication - but I hope you will commit with me to be #OneRamily.
 
 
 
 


Ed Kull
Interim Director of Athletics