A statement from Florida Center for Reading Research Director Don Compton

Dear FCRR Community,

As we start a new week during this incredible time in our nation’s history, I feel compelled to reach out to you as members of our FCRR community. To be perfectly honest, I am at a loss for words and don’t quite know what to say. The killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and countless other Black Americans are disgusting and painful reminders of the racism and inequity that persist in the United States. I am concerned for our Black faculty, staff, and students, who experience these effects disproportionately in their daily lives. Their lives matter. FCRR reaffirms our commitment to advancing the science of reading because we know how critical education is to ensuring equity and equality in all aspects of life. Moreover, our strategic plan offers tangible opportunities to work purposefully and expeditiously towards achieving the diversity and inclusion we value in our research, innovation, and engagement. Although much seems uncertain these days, this is a place from which FCRR can and will lead.

Please stay safe and healthy,

Don Compton
Director, Florida Center for Reading Research