The horrific tragedy in Orlando yesterday touches all of us. On behalf of the University of Rochester I extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the victims of yesterday’s mass shooting in Orlando. There is no justification for violence of this kind.
Let me express my appreciation to the students, staff and others who have organized today’s event for our campus community to grieve in the aftermath of this horrible tragedy and find support from each other.
Let me also emphatically reaffirm that it is the responsibility of all of us, individually and collectively in the University of Rochester community, to ensure that University is a safe and inclusive place for every one of us. We will not look away from any intolerance based on sexual orientation or gender identity and through our words and actions we shall spread the message that human decency, respect and kindness must prevail.