Dear Colleagues,
I am writing to share with you the outcome of?an?historic vote?last night by the University System of New Hampshire Board of Trustees. At the request of my fellow university system presidents?and me,??the board unanimously agreed to add Juneteenth as a recognized holiday in the university’s schedule.?In addition to marking the end of slavery in the United States, Juneteenth is a day of remembrance and an opportunity for African-Americans to honor their history and celebrate Black culture. Recognizing this day?reflects our deep commitment to and support of our multicultural communities across our campuses.?
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If you would like to learn more about Juneteenth, please go to?https://www.history.com/news/what-is-juneteenth.
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While additional information about the new holiday will be provided by Human Resources when the 2021 holiday schedule is released later this year, this change increases the total of common (Juneteenth makes nine) and floating holidays from 11 to 12 per year. This change is for non-union employees; extending it to bargaining units will require negotiation and agreement.??
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The recognition of this important day in our collective history is just one small piece of the work we must do as an institution to address racism?and promote?diversity, equity and inclusion. Please join me to learn more about our other initiatives at town hall meetings that begin Monday.
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Staff:?Monday, Sept. 21, 5-6:30 p.m.
https://unh.zoom.us/j/91767225726
or +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 917 6722 5726
Faculty:?Wednesday, Sept. 23, 4-5:30 p.m.
https://unh.zoom.us/j/91838979786
or +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 918 3897 9786
Students:?Wednesday, Sept. 30, 6:30-8 p.m.?
https://unh.zoom.us/j/98872448179
or +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 988 7244 8179
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Sincerely,
James W. Dean Jr.
President
