To the º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ community:
I write to express sorrow and sympathy on behalf of º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ University following Sunday morning’s tragic mass shooting in Orlando, Fla. Our thoughts and prayers go to all those affected and to everyone who feels the pain of this tragedy in a deeply personal way.
We grieve this senseless loss of life and injury, with echoes of, and links to, other acts of historical violence as well as contemporary terrorism. It is a tragic instance of the violence that LGBTQ people continue to suffer despite many recent legal gains for the community.
I write, as well, to affirm the values of this institution in creating and maintaining an inclusive, welcoming, and safe place for all — a place where we recognize injustice, challenge intolerance, and combat hate. As Omid Safi, former º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ philosophy and religion professor, told our graduating Class of 2016 in his baccalaureate address, “Continue expanding your circle of compassion until every sentient being and every human being is included.â€
In that spirit, the º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ community is invited to join a vigil of contemplation, reflection, or sharing this evening outside Memorial Chapel on the Academic Quad at 8:30 pm. In case of inclement weather, the gathering will take place at the ALANA Cultural Center. Staff from the LGBTQ Initiatives Office will be present to assist, counsel and refer.
Members of the counseling center (315-228-7385) staff are available to talk with any students on campus for the summer who are feeling distressed or troubled about this tragedy or any other concern.
Sincerely,
Jill Harsin
Interim President