Campus Community,
I am writing today concerning various incidents that have occurred on our campus
recently, that have taken us some time to piece together. I recognize that this message
comes later than some may have expected, but it remains important that I speak to
these events and reaffirm our shared values, as outlined in our strategic plan.
On October 24, a student organization hosted a “free speech ball.” The public was
invited to place statements on the ball, several of which included rhetoric against
our Jewish, LGTBQ and black communities, and well as anti-Trump and anti-Democrat
language.
On Friday, October 31, three pumpkins were found on UW property that included carvings
and phrases of Nazi symbolism and language. UWPD was alerted to these pumpkins and
removed them immediately as abandoned property. UWPD was able to identify the persons
who carved and placed the pumpkins but was unable to identify the persons who wrote
the phrases on the ball. Additionally, Equal Opportunity Report and Response is actively and swiftly investigating both incidents under Title VI and per Office
for Civil Rights rules and regulations. Anyone feeling unsafe on campus at any time
should contact UWPD immediately at 307-766-5179.
Given the inseparable connection between these symbols and the murder and persecution
of millions, many have understandably been frightened and offended. I want to express
my deep-felt compassion for the many who find the expressions on the pumpkins to be
reprehensible, which I personally share. I am sure we all recognize that such displays,
while generally protected under the First Amendment, run counter to the values of
respect and care that define our university. Upholding free expression does not mean
condoning acts that marginalize or demean others. We are committed to fostering a
campus climate where all members feel safe and supported.
I want to again recognize that this event has caused significant hurt and anger for
many in our community. I hope very much that we can come together as the supportive
community that we are, that we must be, and consider how we can all do better in expressing
ourselves and supporting one another.
For those who are impacted, I encourage you to seek support and remember, as Nadine
Strossen stressed during her visit to UW this spring, the best way to fight bigotry and ignorance is through education and dialogue, not
censorship.
I encourage anyone who has been affected by these events to reach out to following
university resources.
Sincerely,
Ed Seidel, President
