Anti-Racist Initiative

loading slideshow...

  • Person holding cardboard sign that reads "racism is a pandemic too"
  • BLM Mural Lynn
  • Close up of Embrace Statue in Boston Common

We, the members of the BU Brain Plasticity and Neuroimaging Laboratory, condemn police brutality, white supremacy and the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade and all other victims of police brutality and systemic racism. We are also deeply concerned about the disproportionate impact the COVID-19 pandemic has on our black and brown communities.

Affirmative Action holds significant importance in promoting social justice and fostering a more equitable society. The BU Brain Plasticity and Neuroimaging Laboratory will continue to acknowledge the historical disadvantages faced by many marginalized groups and recognizes that past discrimination and systemic inequalities continue to impact present opportunities despite the Supreme Court’s ruling. We commit our work to fostering diversity and inclusion and cross-cultural understanding. 

“The ruling of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) is profoundly disappointing because it takes us backward, potentially creating less diverse college campuses and a less just America. This decision is antithetical to Boston University’s values and mission.” 

– President Robert A. Brown on Affirmative Action June 29, 2023

We affirm our commitment to eradicating all forms of racism and racial health inequities and are proud to be part of an institution that is committed to antiracist research.

Dr. Schon serves also in several capacities related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ). She serves as Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion at the Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and chairs the Equity & Inclusion Committee of the Faculty Council at Boston University. She is also a member of the GMS Diversity Steering Committee. Dr. Schon is a faculty affiliate at BU’s Center for Antiracist Research. For additional information see Dr. Schon’s BU Profile DEIA page.

We are committed to raising awareness about racism, racial health inequities, such as the Alzheimer’s disease health disparity, and the negative mental and physical health impact of both interpersonal and systemic racism.

Karin Schon, Ph.D., Director, Brain Plasticity & Neuroimaging Laboratory

Razan Alotaibi, Ph.D., Anatomy & Neurobiology

Michael Rosario, Ph.D. Student, Graduate Program for Neuroscience

Lea Stith, Ph.D. Student, Graduate Program for Neuroscience

Tatianna Parker, Research Assistant, BU PREP Student

Lisa Wood, Lab Manager, Brain Plasticity & Neuroimaging Laboratory

Niya Adlersberg, Study Coordinator & Psychometrist, Brain Plasticity & Neuroimaging Laboratory

07/2023