Dear Students-
You are on our minds as we work our way through defining a safe start (and finish!) to 2020-2021 for theatre courses and performance. Now, more than ever, it is important for all of us to remember the priorities of the theatre program, as stated at the start of every semester. They are:
- Your health
- Your family (however you define it)
- Your education
The threats of the Coronavirus and the racial discrimination and injustice that surrounds us make these priorities more important now than they ever have been before.
Please, wear your masks for the sake of your HEALTH and the health of others. Limit your group gatherings and maintain social distancing. The rapid spread is no joke.
Respect and listen to one another, especially our FAMILY of black students, faculty, staff, and all BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color). They are hurting.
Stay open to our K-State FAMILY within the LGBTQ community. Many are navigating new identities along with the loneliness of social distancing and the anxiety of societal unrest and racism.
EDUCATE yourselves during this time to be ready for a “new normal” when you return. We need you to be adaptable and open to change.
You, as artists, are good at being open. You observe, you listen, you respond with empathy. If you are in pain, reach out. There are so many faculty who are here for you- even in the summer.
Jen V. vellenga@ksu.edu