BSN statement: Black Lives Matter
On 25 May 2020 a Black man was held down by the knee of a Minneapolis police officer for 8 minutes and 46 seconds; three other officers stood by. That man, George Floyd, died. The officers ended their shifts and went home. However, the incident was captured on video. The world has seen many protests since then and the British Society for Neuroendocrinology issues this strong statement of support. Those who oppress should know we condemn them; those who are oppressed should know that they do not stand alone.
Reaffirming our commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion
This recent terrible event brings back to the fore the systemic racism and marginalisation that can all too easily oppress members of our ethnic minorities. The British Society for Neuroendocrinology (BSN) denounces racism of any kind and reaffirms our commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion. As we bear witness to the recent brutality, we are reminded that there is so much work to be done everywhere. We cannot stay silent and leave the work of improvement to others.
The BSN represents neuroendocrinologists around the world. Our objective is to promote and support the best science, whatever the background of the scientists engaged on it. We celebrate and support our members of all ethnicities. In the light of the recent incident, we will urgently carry out a review of our activities to ensure inclusivity, equality and diversity are embedded as core principles within the BSN community.
June 2020
