Dear Falcon Family,
 
I come to you today with an apology for not saying this sooner.

On Tuesday, June 2, UM President John W. Stewart III distributed a statement to campus condemning the long-standing and unfortunate history of racial injustice in our country, and calling for all members of the Montevallo family to stand together against racism and violence toward people of color. 

I and the entire University of Montevallo Athletics Department whole-heartedly supported President Stewart's message, and we are committed to standing in solidarity with the Black community to combat discrimination and prejudice in all of its forms.

However, I and some colleagues in the Athletics Department admittedly have not taken appropriate measures on social media and other communication channels to show our support for President Stewart's message.

For that, I sincerely apologize, and I pledge to work with our student-athletes to find a way to make a difference. 

Earlier today, I spoke with many of our student-athletes on a Zoom call during which I heard justified concern, hurt and anger over our silence on social media in the days since President Stewart's message was distributed.

Please know that I, everyone else in the Athletics Department and everyone in the UM Family universally condemns all forms of racial injustice, hatred and bigotry.

To our African-American student-athletes, both current and past, please know that we stand together with you, and you have our complete support today, tomorrow and forever.
 
Mark Richard
Director of Athletics