To the African American Community at the University of Michigan,
As many of you know, incidents of hate occurred on our campus over the weekend, including a racist statement directed toward our black community at the West Quad residential hall.
The University of Michigan Department of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) has met with the affected students to ensure their safety moving forward. In addition, Housing Security has been performing additional patrols as the U-M Police Department continues to investigate all of the reported incidents. Diversity Peer Educators and the West Quad hall director are also providing direct support to the impacted students. We as a community stand with them.
My heart goes out to the affected students, as well as the impacted community on campus. I find these incidents disgraceful, disappointing, and condemn both the ideas and actions of the perpetrator(s). These senseless and hateful activities are not representative of our institutional beliefs, and are counter to our effort in making the University of Michigan a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment.
Despite the negative intention of these incidents, I would like to shine a light on our community, as an overwhelming majority have come together, and continuously support one another, when members are attacked.
Many voices from our university, including a wonderful statement from our Black Student Union, have rung out across campus. These are the voices and ideas that represent the University of Michigan.
Hate-filled messages, such as those received over the weekend, will only strengthen our resolve in making institutional changes that will result in the University of Michigan living up to its potential – one that provides the finest educational opportunities to all of its community.
We will not let racism and hate divide or define who we are as a university, or prevent us from achieving our collective goals.
Please know the President, who has released a statement regarding these incidents, and the entire University of Michigan community is committed to ensuring the safety of all students, and together, we will continue to challenge and persevere through all acts of hate.
Robert Sellers
Vice Provost for Equity and Inclusion
Chief Diversity Officer