The Department's newly formed Diversity Committee has just begun work, and we look forward to productive engagement with you on issues of diversity, inclusion, and department climate. Recent national events have led many in our departmental and broader university community to feel at risk, personally and professionally. We reaffirm the department's commitment to diversity and inclusion, and pledge to continue work to ensure that the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics is a welcoming place to all. Both the President and Provost have released a statement regarding recent events, linked here.