WWU to host a campus-wide community gathering tonight at 6 p.m.

Dear Campus Community:

It is an understatement to say that the past few weeks have been anxiety-producing for many of us.  Last Saturday, we were reminded yet again that violent acts of antisemitism are on the rise, culminating in a murderous rampage at the Tree of Life congregation in Pittsburgh that is among the deadliest ever against the Jewish community in the United States.  And all of that while we were still trying to comprehend the motivations of a man in Florida who was arrested for sending pipe bombs to political leaders and journalists, and just days after an avowed racist shot two black people in a grocery store in Kentucky.

For those of us who are increasingly feeling stripped of our humanity, finding comfort and solidarity in a caring community can offer some solace.  I hope that you will join me for a community gathering in the Wilson Library Reading Room at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 5.  This is an opportunity to find comfort in the company and support of friends, colleagues and mentors, and enjoy light refreshments.  An online, interactive accessibility map to the venue is available at http://www.wwu.edu/map/?features=accessibility.  For additional accommodations for the event, please contact Lynne Walker at Lynne.Walker@wwu.edu or 360-650-2834.

Western is a community of changemakers dedicated to the principles of equity and inclusion.  When our values are under siege it is more important than ever to stand together against hatred and the violence spawned by bigotry and ignorance.  I hope you will join me in coming together to focus on the overwhelming good that surrounds us, and the shared understanding, respect and compassion that we seek to instill in our community.  I look forward to seeing you there.

Sincerely,

Sabah