The following quotes from Jeff Bourne, Curt Cignetti and Mark Byington can be found on Facebook, JMUsports.com and Twitter and from
https://www.dnronline.com/sports/jmu-ath...59cc8.html
Jeff Bourne:
“The violent, hate-driven events of the past week are deplorable,” Bourne’s statement read in part. “I join so many others who have spoken out in denouncing the terrible acts of racial injustice occurring in our country. Hostility in the form of racism, white supremacy, police brutality and social injustice cannot be tolerated. We must act and be part of the change, and we must not be coerced by voices and forces that celebrate divisiveness. JMU Athletics supports its student-athletes, coaches and staff of every color and creed and celebrates every individual.”
“Occasionally, I am asked why JMU (and society at large, for that matter) places such value on athletics,” Bourne said. “With so many issues in the world and so many other priorities shouldn’t we be focusing our time and energy other places. After all, it’s just a game.
“Alternatively, I would argues that through athletics we are part of the solution. At James Madison, we often talk about student-athlete experiences and the intrinsic values that are nurtured in participation in athletics. While we certainly celebrate success and on-field achievements, the true celebration occurs when individuals grow and prepare to be contributing members of society. We are steadfastly committed to this purpose for intercollegiate athletics.”
JMU football coach Curt Cignetti: “Today, I pray for my players and their families. I pray for all people of color, that they be treated with trust and respect. I pray for love, not hate, good not evil, light not darkness.”
Mark Byington tweeted:
“I have joined so many of you in watching what has happened in America this week, throughout my lifetime, and before I was born,” Byington wrote. “It has filled me with outrage and a sense of helplessness. I’m in a position of leadership where I lead young men, many of whom have lived a life of suffering injustices and prejudices like George Floyd, as well as countless others. I can’t know the difficulty that they face on a regular basis, but I can only pray that we find the answers and remedies to change our country. That starts with ALL of us!”
And we are not even half way through 2020 yet!