Standing up for Justice

A message to our community

We are deeply saddened and angered by the killing of George Floyd and of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Stephon Clark, Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin, and so many other victims of racist violence in our country's history. We are comforted by the response of millions who have risen to protest this systemic injustice. And we are filled with resolve that our better angels will continue to guide us from where we stand now toward peaceful, sustained, and effective action.

The Mike and Renee Child Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship stands for opportunity and empowerment. Our mission is to support those who dare to make a positive difference in the world. But these values and their ultimate impact depend on access and inclusion. We are rededicating ourselves to providing opportunities, guidance, support, and community to black innovators and entrepreneurs. Most importantly, we are committed to listening and learning as we move forward.

We echo the statements of UC Davis Chancellor Gary MayVice Chancellor Renetta G. Tull, Graduate School of Management Dean H. Rao Unnava, the UC Office of the President, and so many of our partners and colleagues. We will start by learning, developing, and implementing ways our institute may further engage and support black students, postdoctoral scholars, and faculty in our programs, our courses, our networks, and our community. Our clear and unequivocal goal: reducing the disparity that exists in our nation’s innovation ecosystems.

For justice,

The Institute team: Joe DiNunzio, Karen Harding-Davis, Professor Andrew Hargadon, Sumiko Hong, Lindsay Lowry, Jenna Makus, Niki Peterson, Marianne Skoczek, and Damon Tull 

Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – Resources for Racial Trauma

Visit this ever-growing resources webpage to learn about coming events, such as healing circles; discover resources to act, think, and support; read ally statements; and sign up for the office's email list.