In the aftermath of this very close and highly contentious election, I want to take this moment to reaffirm our University’s commitment to our mission of education, discovery, healing and public service. I also want to reaffirm our ongoing and unwavering support toward creating and nurturing an inclusive, diverse and welcoming community. It is central to our commitment to equity, access and excellence, and it is essential to building a better future for us all. Here at the University of Washington, we hold sacred our responsibility to serve the public good, and that will never waver.
As an immigrant, Latina, lesbian, I can understand why some in our community may be feeling marginalized, threatened or afraid. It has been a very difficult election season for us all. Now is the time to look for and find the best in each other, reach out across our differences and come together as a community. It will take hard work, intellectual honesty, kindness, respect, generosity and compassion to heal this divided country and world. I know that some of you are already gathering in small groups to do that. Today, perhaps more than any other in recent history, these values must be held up as the ideals we share. We can, and must, create a more perfect union.
For those who wish to spend time with community tonight, the Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center will hold a gathering at 6 p.m. in the ECC Unity Room.
Source: Office of the President Blog