Oct. 12, 2020
Dr. Dawn Lindsay, president of Anne Arundel Community College, released a statement in response to the recent Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping issued by President Trump. As a college, AACC has made a commitment to equity and inclusivity. The full text of her message is below.
As you may have seen in the news, there is a recent Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping issued by President Trump. I want to address the topic upfront.
Let me be clear: AACC stands committed to the success of its students, faculty and staff through focused attention on equity, diversity, inclusion and antiracism, and remains dedicated to the work necessary to achieve the goals we have collectively articulated for our college and community. As I recently shared with you, this commitment is central to our strategic plan and reflects our college’s core values.
The college recognizes not only that questions may arise, but the deep hurt and pain that many of our faculty, staff and students experienced when they learned of this executive order.
AACC is committed to the central tenants of academic freedom, integrity and the constant pursuit of knowledge. We will continue to trust our faculty and staff as the experts that they are and stand behind our curriculum and professional development and how it is delivered. I want to reassure you – with support of the Board of Trustees – that we will carry forward with our strategic plan, training and education in support of our mission, vision, and philosophy, all rooted in the American promise of democracy and equality.
As further background, David Baime, Senior Vice President for Government Relations and Policy Analysis for the American Association of Community Colleges, released a commentary on Sept. 30, 2020 that provides some additional information on the executive order.
Please know we will continue to work together to ensure an inclusive college community for all.