Dear Maryland Community,
While today marks the end of classes for the Fall 2022 semester, it is also a special day of remembrance on our campus. Today, we honor the life and legacy of Lt. Richard Collins III on what would have been his 29th birthday.
The tragic murder of Lt. Collins on our campus reminds us of our collective commitment and resolve to fight against racial injustice at every level. What may seem like small insignificant moments or comments can lead to larger forms of institutional and structural oppression. The fight to end hate starts with each of us in our respective communities.
On December 4, 2022, the bus stop shelter where Lt. Collins was murdered was taken down, intact, and transferred to a secure location. We view this as an important step forward for the University of Maryland, Bowie State University and the Collins family.
To pay your respects and reflect on this day, we invite you to visit the Lt. Collins Plaza on campus to remember Lt. Collins and the legacy we are building to remove racism and hate from our campus, community and nation. On Friday, April 28, 2023, at Bowie State University, we hope you will join the Social Justice Alliance for its annual symposium to honor the legacy of Lt. Collins. Shuttles will be available for UMD students who want to attend.
May the Lt. Collins Plaza continue to serve as a place of peace, hope and healing.
Sincerely,
Darryll J. PinesPresident, University of MarylandHe/Him/HisRashawn RayProfessor of SociologyBSU-UMD Social Justice AllianceHe/Him/His