Sallyportal: Madly Blogging Reed

Reed Rallies Against Hate

By Chris Lydgate ’90 on November 14, 2016 01:47 PM

Prof. Kelly Chacón [chemistry] writes a message of support for students after hateful graffiti was discovered in the Hauser Library.

The Reed community came together Monday to stand against hatred and bigotry as hundreds of students, faculty, staff, and alumni converged in the lobby of the Hauser Library, which was the target of hateful vandals over the weekend.

Reedies wrote their own messages of love and support in a defiant response to the bigots. Penned on yellow sticky notes and posters, the messages sprouted through the lobby like daffodils after a winter storm. See a selection of notes, and add your own to the collection.

“We will not stand by silently when hate or bigotry occur,” read one.

“My heart is bursting with the love I have for you,” read another.

Dayspring Mattole, assistant dean of students for inclusive community in the Multicultural Resource Center, said the event was a chance for the community to offer its love and support.

The graffiti was erased by valiant Reed maintenance workers within hours of its discovery. That same night, the Dean for Institutional Diversity, Mary James, and the Vice President for Student Services, Mike Brody, issued a statement condemning its hateful message. “Such behavior is antithetical to Reed’s mission and values, and will not be tolerated. Anyone seeking to cause fear or harm to members of the Reed community should expect a vigorous response.”

While Reed has so far received no reports of physical violence on campus, Community Safety Officers are increasing patrols and are available 24/7 to escort students on campus.

Portland Police are investigating the crime. We encourage anyone with relevant information to contact the bureau at 503/823-3333.

 

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