Friends,

We are all aware of the tragedy that fell on Orlando a couple of weeks back. It is our responsibility as leaders to act. This Sunday I will proudly stand with Chancellor Zimpher in leading nearly 300 of my fellow students and colleagues in the NYC Pride Parade. But something more needs to be done. A display of dedication and solidarity with the LGBT+/MOGII community.

For the last couple of weeks under the leadership of my Deputy Chief of Staff, Carolyn Sheridan, we have been working to organize a blood drive. The details have finally come together. I encourage each of you and your colleagues to come to the  University at Albany Campus Center Assembly Hall next Wednesday, June 29 between 9:00 am and 1:30 pm  to donate blood. Free parking has been arranged in the Indian Quad Visitor lot, and signs will be posted to help you find your way. Feel free to schedule an appointment prior to coming by going to http://www.redcrossblood.org/ give/drive/driveSearchList.jsp?zipSponsor=SUNYAssembly

It is important to note that the Student Assembly has passed a resolution calling for blood donation equality. It's an unfortunate reality that members of the LGBT+/MOGII communities were not permitted to donate blood in the aftermath of the shooting due to current FDA regulations. There are several advocates working to change that policy, including the Student Assembly leadership. Our hosting of this drive should not be seen as acceptance of current policies, but instead a show of support for the families of those lost.

Attached is a flyer SUNY SA Blood Drive (pdf) that I encourage you to share with students, faculty, staff, administrators, and members of the community. We also have a live Facebook Event page which I hope you will visit and invite people to join.

I'll be there all day and plan to donate at 10:00 am . Will you join me?

In solidarity,

Marc J. Cohen President, Student Assembly of the State University of New York Trustee, The State University of New York

State University Plaza N501, Albany, NY 12246 Tel: 518.320.1288  Fax  518.320.1557   Twitter  @MarcCohen