To our University of Rochester Community,
We want to inform you about the disturbing discovery of swastikas and anti-Semitic language written on the River Campus tunnel walls on Friday, February 2. Once reported to the Department of Public Safety (DPS), these harmful symbols and words were promptly removed. The use of anti-Semitic symbols and language and other forms of hate will not be tolerated under any circumstances on University property.
The use of anti-Semitic symbols and language contradict our Meliora and ICARE values. Hateful acts such as these are blemishes on the fabric of this community. DPS is investigating and asks if you have any information about the vandalism or feel unsafe in any way to contact them at (585) 275-3333.
Historically, the tunnels have offered students a convenient way to travel through campus and to share news about activities and events and to express support for one another and the many cultures and identities that make up our community. The tradition of tunnel painting is part of what makes Rochester a special place to live and study, and we are saddened that anyone would use the tunnels to express hatred. The goal of such vandalism is to intimidate other members of our community and to prevent them from feeling as if they can fully participate in the life of campus. As a community, we cannot allow that to happen.
We welcome difficult discussions and debates about challenging topics on campus, but with the expectation that we will engage in such discussions with respect for one another and the viewpoints and experiences that each of us brings.
Hate speech and other harmful actions have no home at the University of Rochester.
Sincerely,
Adrienne Morgan, Ph.D.
Vice President for Equity and Inclusion
Richard Feldman Chief Diversity Officer
Office of Equity and Inclusion
John H. Blackshear, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Life
University of Rochester
Please also see the following University resources available to support you throughout your time at the University:
Bias-Related Incident Reporting
Report an incident if you or someone you know was discriminated against based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, national origin, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Someone will follow up and help coordinate a response.
CARE Resource Center (585) 275-9490
University-wide for students. If you are concerned for yourself or a student, please submit a Concern Referral.
Available on the Medical Center website, this resource is available to all employees. UR Medicine EAP provides confidential guidance and support for addressing a variety of personal and work-related challenges.
The George Walker Center (585) 274-1000
The George Walker Center for Equity and Inclusion in Music does the work of progressing equity and inclusion at the Eastman School of Music.
Interfaith Chapel (585) 275-4321
Chaplains are also available to provide spiritual support. Virtual and in-person worship services are available to those who want to connect with a faith community.
Office of Equity and Inclusion (585) 275-2125
140 Wallis Hall
Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center (585) 275-5678
305 Douglass Commons
University Counseling Center (UCC) (585) 275-3113