Over the past few weeks, our Butler student-athletes, coaches and staff have engaged in meaningful conversations regarding race, racism and justice on our campus, in our city, and across our nation. Some have participated in peaceful protests and rallies. While the conversations have been prevalent over the past few weeks and we honor those who have contributed to past progress, there is more to be done.

The phase of active listening and dialogue has been an important first step for Butler Athletics, and that will continue. However, the deep-rooted issue of racism and the resulting injustices require action…sustained and intentional action.

We accept the reality that racism exists and that we must work together to eliminate it.  We also know that an issue of this magnitude – one that has manifested itself in our society for hundreds of years – demands commitment and a purposeful approach to improve every day.

Today Butler Athletics is launching BUnited, a department-wide initiative focused on empathy, education and experience. Its mission is Building Unity Through Leadership, Education and Respect.

We believe it is fitting that today's launch of #BUnited comes on Juneteenth.   

We have been inspired by the passion within our department to work boldly together to make things better on our campus, in our city, and across our nation. Our dialogue has been honest and sometimes uncomfortable. And that has been necessary for us to move forward.

BUnited has a framework, but it is far from a finalized plan. We are excited to utilize the intensity and talent of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, alumni, and constituents to build this initiative in a way that can be both impactful and sustainable. The concept of BUnited itself began during a conversation on race as part of a team meeting. This initiative will be most successful as hundreds of Bulldogs come together to build it.

Change is coming. Better days are ahead. And we are excited to put our words into action. Please join us as we launch #BUnited.

Go Dawgs,
Barry Collier, Sharon Clark, Sonya Hopkins, Jason Perry, LaVall Jordan, Molly Sullivan, Mike Freeman, Ken LaRose, Alex Perry, Ralph Reiff, Tom Crowley, and John Dedman on behalf of the entire Butler Athletics Family

Empathy: Providing opportunities and forums to share experiences; pondering, questioning and confronting emotional issues; actively listening to all perspectives on the topic of race and racism openly
Educate: Providing information and resources to better support and better educate ALL; creating more opportunities for growth as it pertains to racial injustices and equality
Experience: Evaluating the current environment at Butler relating to race; intentionally promoting an environment of understanding and fairness; establishing and implementing protocols, practices and initiatives to support the optimal experience