Friends,

At Guilford College, we join our nation in mourning the killing of Tyre Nichols, and hold his family and loved ones in the Light.

For many in the Guilford community, experiencing media reports and video of the appalling and brutal beating of Tyre that led to his death brings up memories of others who have been killed at the hands of police. This may provoke grief, anger, fear and sadness, which is understandable.

The video of Tyre’s fatal encounter with Memphis police officers will likely elicit a range of feelings from our community. I encourage those who need it to seek support from Friends Center and the Counseling Center. We have skillful, caring people who want to help you process your feelings.

Systemic failures in our society, such as those that have led to the deaths of Tyre and too many others, must be addressed. 

As an institution that has as part of its mission, building a culture that promotes justice, I am certain that members of our community will actively find ways to change conditions that once again have shortened a life of promise, drawn sorrow from a family and caused a nation to reflect on violence perpetrated by individuals who were supposed to protect the neighborhoods that local citizens call home.

In Concern,
Kyle Farmbry
President