Statement Following the Death of Patrick Lyoya

April 14, 2022 

This week, Grand Rapids Police released video footage of the fatal police shooting of Patrick Lyoya, a Black Congolese refugee, following a traffic stop. We recognize that this graphic footage and news of the incident can be triggering for people worldwide. We also recognize the hurt and frustration that follows yet another incident involving the use of deadly force against a Black person.  

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) stands with the Black, Indigenous and Persons of Color (BIPOC) communities. We were deeply saddened to learn of Patrick’s death and remain committed to supporting our Black Spartans.  

Let us be clear: Black Lives Matter. 

While words fall short in the wake of tragedy, sometimes, having someone to talk to is an important part of processing incidents such as this one.  

Resources available to students that provide safe spaces to process thoughts and feelings include: 

  • CAPS Connect:  free, confidential 10- to 15-minute consultations with a CAPS counselor  
     
  • The Steve Fund, the nation’s leading organization focusing on supporting the mental, social and emotional well-being of young people of color. Text Steve to 741741 for crisis counseling. 
     
  • ThrivingCampus, a free-to-use online platform that makes it easier to connect with off-campus mental health care 

See additional resources and our commitment to education and advocacy to help Spartans better understand why Black Lives Matter here.