In the wake of the murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis Police Department's Derek Chauvin, the University of Minnesota has cut major ties with the MPD in solidarity with and for the safety of their students. In her letter addressing students, staff, and faculty, UM President Joan Gabel stated:

“Our hearts are broken after watching the appalling video capturing the actions of Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) officers against George Floyd leading to his tragic death.”, the letter begins. “As a community, we are outraged and grief-stricken.” 

The protests that consequently followed nationwide, in major cities spanning from Atlanta, Los Angeles to our home of New York City are testament to the tipping point our nation is at. 

In New York City, the NYPD has been caught on camera militarizing the recent peaceful protests, inciting violence and blaming its victims. The police have been a catalyst for stoking violence in a city that many college students and alumni call their home. 

We urge NYU to follow the lead of the University of Minnesota and sever ties with the NYPD. As alumni, we understand the influence and importance that a school like NYU has - to sever ties with the NYPD is to send a message - we DO NOT condone the violence and the actions of the police force. We should NOT wait for more incidents like this to occur, more people to get hurt, arrested or even unlawfully killed before action is taken.

We urge NYU to protect its students, a diverse and international community who deserve to feel safe and protected. College is a time where you should be able to find yourself, explore interests and protest for the things you believe in without fear. The NYPD has created a conflict zone in our homes and has taken these rights away from your students.

NYU, we hope to see you on the right side of history. Make your students, alumni and faculty proud. Sever all ties with the NYPD now. #blacklivesmatter

Photo by @KennethBachor