Message Regarding Unacceptable Racist Graffiti on Campus

Dear Campus Community:

It has come to my attention that abhorrent racist graffiti has been found on the Wright’s Triangle art installation near Carver, on study abroad posters in Red Square, and in several other interior locations on campus.  I am deeply troubled that hateful and bigoted vandalism by cowardly individuals continues to happen here, in a place where we should all feel safe and welcomed.  I want to be perfectly clear:  hate has absolutely no place on our campus.

I am deeply saddened that several of our students saw these upsetting scenes.  Facilities Management is currently working to remove these slurs and doing a survey of all outdoor sculpture and signage.  I want to thank the students who came forward to report this crime, and those who have taken the time to warn their friends and community members.

The path to a truly safe campus depends on fostering a culture in which every member of the community takes personal responsibility to contribute to the solution.  I ask that each of us keep our eyes and ears open and work diligently to look out for one other. If you see or hear anything that is concerning, or if you have any information about these incidents, please contact University Police immediately at 3911.  You can also call the University Police anonymous reporting line at (360) 650-SAFE (7233).

Western's Counseling Center staff is available to meet or speak with any student. The Counseling Center can be reached during normal business hours (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) by calling 360-650-3164. For after-hours crisis support call 360-650-3164 and select Option 1.  The Washington State Employee Assistance Program is a resource available for faculty and staff. EAP counselors are available for in-person or phone appointments. The EAP office can be reached by calling 877-313-4455 (toll free). The toll-free after-hours help line is 866-704-6364. TDD/TYY users, please call via WA Relay at 711

Please know that we take these acts very seriously.  I want to thank you all for your ongoing commitment to social justice and for building a community that rejects despicable acts like these.

Sincerely,

Sabah Randhawa
President