Earlier this evening, officials in Memphis released appalling video footage from the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who died three days after being stopped by police officers on Jan. 7. Five Memphis police officers have been fired and charged with second-degree murder and kidnapping for this horrific act.
The violence against Mr. Nichols in the videos is heartwrenching and extremely disturbing. Officials in Memphis and around the country - including Chicago - are preparing for potential protests and urging demonstrators to be peaceful. The Nichols family has joined calls urging for non-violence. DePaul University prays our community will remain safe.
As a university grounded in its Catholic, Vincentian mission, we stand in solidarity against hate, violence, and police misconduct. We join together in a prayer for peace and justice. I ask our university community to continue to practice care and compassion for one another. Please remember if you are struggling, you are not alone. Should you need assistance, we are here to support you.
General support services for students
University Counseling and Psychological Services
University Counseling and Psychological Services recognizes that the video release of Tyre Nichols' fatal encounter with five Memphis police officers may elicit a range of feelings for our DePaul students. In addition to the potential for trauma, the video may also provoke grief, anger, fear, and sadness, all of which would be understandable.
If you are struggling with or feeling overwhelmed by any of these feelings, please reach out for support. To speak with a counselor please call:
DePaul 24/7 Mental Health Helpline: (773) 325-2273
Or visit one of our UCAPS offices during office hours Monday to Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at one of our locations on campus:
Lincoln Park Campus – 2250 N. Sheffield Avenue, Student Center, Suite 350
Loop Campus – 25 E. Jackson Blvd.; Lewis Center, Suite 1465
Division of Mission and Ministry
Division of Mission and Ministry staff provide pastoral care and support for people of all faiths or spiritual backgrounds, as well as for those who do not claim a particular tradition or belief. Please contact Fr. Memo Campuzano or Min. Jené Ashley Colvin if you need support, prayer, or a listening ear.
Office of Health Promotion and Wellness
HPW helps students manage stress, anxiety, sleeplessness, and overall physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Please contact (773) 325-7129 or complete this online form.
Office of Multicultural Student Success
OMSS offers support for students of color, first-generation students, students who demonstrate financial need, undocumented immigrant students, and students with marginalized genders and sexualities. Please contact (773) 325-7325.