MCC Daily Tribune

Quotes That Inspire

"There are years that ask questions and years that answer." -- Zora Neale Hurston, American author, anthropologist, and filmmaker.

I am heartbroken and sickened by the tragic death of George Floyd--the most recent among so many unnecessary deaths of African Americans in our country. I know I am far from alone in my feelings of pain, sadness, and anger, but that does little to diminish them. In my lifetime alone, I have witnessed generations of structural injustice and sustained racism. Enough.

I find myself reflecting on Hurston's quote because, as a social scientist, I have reflected upon many years of asking questions. I need to do what I can to make 2020 be the year that answers. The year where I state openly and proudly that racism has no place--anywhere. Not in our criminal justice system, not in education, not in health care. 2020 needs to be the year I as a white woman become an ever more active anti-racist. The year where I work to build safe, supportive, inclusive communities for all; in our cities, our neighborhoods, and our campuses.

Join me in pledging to make 2020 the year that answers with kindness, respect, collaboration, and accountability as the manner in which true partners see and work with one another.

Is there a quote that inspires you? If so, submit it along with a brief narrative about why the quote resonates for you to PresOffice@monroecc.edu. "Quotes That Inspire" are featured on Fridays in the MCC Daily Tribune.

Katherine Douglas
Office of the President
06/05/2020