Black Lives Matter

On a predominantly white campus (PWI), we realize there is room for educating, advocating, and sharing resources to help Spartans better understand why Black Lives Matter.

Inevitably whenever someone comments Black Lives Matter there is a response that all lives matter. It is important to recognize that acknowledging Black Lives Matter does not negate anyone else's life or imply that others don't matter.  In a world where the experiences and input of ethnic and racial minority populations are not sought or honored, and where racist policies and procedures are common, we ALL must speak out about these unjust and oppressive systems.

CAPS counselors are available to provide support and to share resources to help students:

  • Ask CAPS a question: email caps@msu.edu
  • Request a phone consultation: complete a CAPS Phone Request for a phone consultation appointment to discuss your needs and assist with connecting you with available resources. 
  • Plan a virtual outreach event

Campus Administrators, Faculty, and Staff:

CAPS is committed to the collaborative work ahead and encourages our Spartan community of administrators, faculty, and staff to do their part to invoke positive change for the greater good. CAPS wants to highlight this excerpt from the NASPA* statement and encourage a review of the full statement (see link below).

"Racialized violence in this country has deep, deep roots, and digging out requires a combination of strategies: organizing, protest, electoral engagement, accountability for those who commit violence, legislative and policy changes, and more.  There are no easy answers or fixes. This work must not fall solely on the shoulders of people of color. White people must join as allies in condemning racial violence and as committed partners in action and organizing."

*NASPA is the professional association for Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education

Additional Resources

  • 6 Considerations for School Leaders Making a Statement About George Floyd , Education Week 6/2/20, an Opinion piece by Dr. Dorinda Carter Andrews, Chairperson of the MSU Department of Teacher Education, and Shaun Harper, professor at the University of Southern California Rossier School of Education, and executive director of the USC Race and Equity Center. 
  • The Steve Fund is the nation's leading organization focusing on supporting the mental, social, and emotional well-being of young people of color. Go here for resources for coping during this difficult period as well as their response to the current climate on race.

For those interested in 'doing their own work' to eliminate racism:

  • A Detailed List of Anti-Racism Resources for adults and children, including book and movie recommendations, television shows, articles, and more. Posted on medium dot com to help create a greater understanding of systemic racism and implicit bias, the list will be regularly updated.


From blacklivesmatter.com:

#BlackLivesMatter was founded in 2013 in response to the acquittal of Trayvon Martin's murderer. The Black Lives Matter Foundation is a global organization whose mission is to peacefully eradicate white supremacy.

  • We are working for a world where Black lives are no longer systematically targeted for demise.
  • We affirm our humanity, our contributions to this society, and our resilience in the face of deadly oppression.
  • We acknowledge, respect, and celebrate differences and commonalities.
  • We work vigorously for freedom and justice for Black people and, by extension, all people.

Students and those who love them are invited to learn more about #BlackLivesMatter and how each of us can make a difference.

  • Learn about the Lansing chapter of Black Lives Matter
  • Explore the global actions, resources, petitions, programs, and more at blacklivesmatter.com