Dear Railsplitter Family,

America is hurting. Since March, we have been wounded mentally, physically and economically from the effects of COVID-19. Now, current trials of racial injustice are hurting us in countless ways that words often find inadequate to fully express. These issues are complex, and often leave us infuriated, disordered, conflicted and confused as to how to coexist with a meaningful exchange.
 
I personally care deeply about this issue and I know the staff here at Lincoln Memorial University is prepared to do everything possible to drive a positive change. Abraham Lincoln once said, "Character is like a tree and reputation its shadow. The shadow is what we think it is and the tree is the real thing." It is time for us to take accountability and address the real issues.

Thursday at 4 p.m. ET the LMU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will facilitate a virtual discussion called "Speak Out." The purpose of the Zoom event is to provide all of our student-athletes with an open forum to talk candidly about racial inequality. This discussion will be closed to the public.

In the interim, I still want to encourage everyone to stay safe and converse with one another on how we can collectively do better. LMU can serve as a positive example of how to transform the world for the better. As a safe and caring community, we value everyone and trust that our differences can make us stronger and more resilient. Let us stand in unity against all acts of racism, disrespect and inequitable treatment. God Bless George Floyd, his loved ones and anybody that has fallen victim to social injustice across our country.

Stay strong Splitters!

- Director of Athletics Jasher Cox