August 2017

Dear Colleagues,

This weekend, I was horrified and saddened to see violence break out in the city of Charlottesville at a rally of white supremacist groups the day after they marched on the campus of the University of Virginia, a UCAR member university. We join with UVA in condemning the hateful and extreme views espoused by these groups. They have no place in our country, no place in our research community, and indeed, no place at UCAR and NCAR.

Today I want to reaffirm to you all that our organization is committed to fostering a workplace where diversity can flourish and where all employees feel safe, regardless of their race, beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, or any other differences. In fact, we are stronger for our differences; the unique points of view offered by people from different backgrounds allow us to solve today’s most complex problems, both scientifically and organizationally.

I know that the violence in Charlottesville affected many of you deeply as well. Those of you who would like to further process and discuss the event with colleagues in a respectful environment are invited to join our Office of Diversity and Inclusion Staff -- Carolyn and Kristen -- in a community meeting today, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the Foothills Cafeteria. Tomorrow, August 15, we will hold a community meeting, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the Mesa Lab Cafeteria.Or you can contact Carolyn Brinkworth and Kristen Luna Aponte individually for support.

Thanks to each of you for your personal work helping to make UCAR and NCAR a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

Sincerely,

Antonio Busalacchi, UCAR President