Kimberly Potter Verdict
Dear St. Olaf Community,
On the afternoon of April 11, 2021, Daunte Wright was shot and killed by a police officer in the Minneapolis suburb of Brooklyn Center during a traffic stop related to Wright’s expired registration tags. Officer Kimberly Potter, who said she intended to fire her Taser but instead fired her gun, was charged with first-degree manslaughter and second-degree manslaughter. Today, after 4 days of deliberation, a jury found Potter guilty of first-degree manslaughter and second-degree manslaughter.
This decision, coming as we head out to spend time with families and celebrate the holidays, impacts our communities, especially our Black and African American communities, since Daunte Wright was killed in our own backyard. This verdict will continue to create change in our justice system to improve accountability and move forward the anti-racist dialogue. But it does not bring back the life of Mr. Wright or erase the impact his murder had on his family and community.
As we head out on break, do not forget that there are resources and people who can support you while you process this news.
- Talking about Racism, Racial Equity and Racial Healing with Friends, Family, Colleagues and Neighbors
- How to talk to your family, friends about racism and white privilege
- Coping with Racial Trauma
- Tips for Self-Care: When Police Brutality Has You Questioning Humanity and Social Media Is Enough
- Boe House Counseling Center
- Staff and Faculty Mental Health Support
- Mental Health Crisis Resources
- TimelyCare. Students can access mental health care through a “Talk Now” appointment 24/7 for emotional support and you can also set up a “Scheduled Counseling” appointment.
- Taylor Center for Equity and Inclusion
- College Ministry
- Racism and Mental Health Resources – The Wellness Center
Sincerely,
María
Dr. María C. Pabón Gautier
Vice President for Equity and Inclusion