June 5, 2020

To our members, our community, our partners and our friends,

The events that have occurred in the past week, including the death of George Floyd and resulting protests have been difficult to watch. I know I have found myself awake at night thinking of the inequality, injustice, intense anger and emotion in our country. As the leader of the ACVIM, I acknowledge the injustices and would like to reinforce our commitment to inclusiveness. In doing so, the ACVIM joins a large number of corporations, organizations and other veterinary colleges that are expressing concerns about the recent tragedies and events happening across the country.

In response to these types of actions, I would like to reaffirm ACVIM’s commitment to maintaining a community of inclusiveness that respects the diverse backgrounds and values of its members, candidates, staff and partners in all of its activities as outlined in the Statement of Inclusiveness and Non-discrimination Policy. I am committed to ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for all individuals.

In the past few months we have witnessed how a community and world can set aside self-interests and differences for the benefit of our neighbors and society. I encourage you, as part of the ACVIM community, to continue to work together toward adapting actions and thinking that respects and represents diversity.

Stay well and safe,

Linda Fineman DVM, DACVIM (Oncology) Chief Executive Officer, ACVIM