Dear University community:

This is a difficult and somber week for Humboldt State University, as we approach the one-year anniversary of the death of student David Josiah Lawson. I encourage everyone to be supportive of those who were most affected and those who are struggling with the fact that there still has been no resolution to his case.

Josiah was taken from us on the morning of April 15, when he was killed at an off-campus gathering. His death shook our campus and the community, especially after we learned that the murder may have been racially motivated.  

We have looked for answers as the criminal investigation has dragged on, and I share your concerns that it has been nearly a year. Josiah’s family and friends, and our entire community, need Justice for Josiah. I have encouraged our local leaders and law enforcement to redouble their efforts, to bring in additional help, to re-check every lead, and to do whatever else is necessary to bring this case to conclusion. HSU will continue to provide any assistance that we can. Our campus and our community need a resolution – and closure.

At the same time, we have also been striving to confront the broader reality of the overt racism, systemic discrimination, and microaggressions endured by People of Color on our campus and in our community. Many of us, myself included, have learned a great deal more about the inequities faced by our friends and colleagues.  We will continue to learn, to grow, and to work together.

Looking to the future, I believe we need Justice for Josiah both now and in a lasting sense.

In Josiah’s memory, HSU is committed to helping build a more just and equitable community on the North Coast. Over the last year, we have been learning to think differently, having challenging conversations, and re-focusing our efforts. We can do better, and doing so will be a powerful and lasting Justice for Josiah.

#JusticeForJosiah

Sincerely,

Lisa A. Rossbacher, Ph.D.
President