Message to Campus: Thoughts on Charlottesville

Dear Members of the Lehigh Community,

The tragic events in Charlottesville at the University of Virginia have shaken the country and cause us once again as citizens and as members of our university community to affirm our values – equality, peaceful dialogue, the free exchange of ideas, the encouragement of respectful debate, and the condemnation and repudiation of intolerance and its manifestation in violence.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. We extend our hopes for a speedy and full recovery for those who were injured. As the events in Charlottesville so starkly demonstrate, we do not and cannot accept violence and rage as a means of advocacy.

The hatred and racism exhibited by the white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups that marched on the University of Virginia campus are antithetical to the values of our nation and Lehigh University and deserve universal condemnation.

I write in solidarity with universities across the globe, and especially UVA, during this tense and difficult time. Many among us are deeply disturbed and fearful as a result of what occurred. In times such as these, universities have an important role. We have a responsibility to give voice to the next generation and to enable them to engage around contentious societal issues through peaceful means and to work toward a more just and fully prosperous society.

As many of you know, UVA is my former home and a place that holds many fond memories for me. This tragedy for me is personal. I am deeply saddened by what has happened. The bigotry and hatred that led to needless deaths and injuries are shocking. They do not represent the people or the institution I know so well and so deeply respect.

We will soon be welcoming a new class of students. This is our opportunity, and indeed our obligation, to demonstrate that Lehigh is a welcoming and safe place. I ask that we as a Lehigh community recommit to our shared values; reject hatred, bigotry and intolerance; and come together with hope and determination to create a more just, actively inclusive and equitable community.

John D. Simon 
President