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The Daily OrangeLetters: Responses to blackface incident
By
Posted: 11/6/03, 2:21 AM EST Section: Opinion
SUNY-ESF president reacts to blackface incident
To Members of the SUNY-ESF and Syracuse University Community:
It is with great concern that I write to the college community regarding recent incidents involving our students. These incidents have shown disrespect not only for members of our community but also for the values of this institution.
As stated in our strategic plan, "ESF is committed to the highest standards of personal and professional behavior. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives represented in our community. We believe that respect for one's self and others leads to a community characterized by integrity and honor ...Through this concern and compassion for others we continually improve and truly make a difference."
Our commitment to sustain this value must be unwavering. And when it is disregarded, we must respond swiftly and earnestly.
Last week, an ESF student chose to wear a Halloween costume that expressed a negative racial stereotype. The behavior was offensive to many in the ESF as well as the Syracuse University community - students, faculty and staff. This disregard for college values and obvious insensitivity related to diversity cannot be excused or minimized. Currently, this matter is being handled through the ESF judicial process. Dialogues and educational programming about racial and other forms of stereotyping will be presented in ensuing weeks.
Upholding our value of "personal and professional behavior" extends, of course, beyond matters of racially insensitive incidents. We have seen on ESF bulletin boards postings of anti-gay articles, and we have been made aware of homophobic actions against members of our community. We are concerned about underage drinking and binge drinking. We are increasingly aware of issues related to academic integrity. All of these behaviors - and the attitudes which fuel them - do not represent the best traditions of this college. Nor do they prepare students for success in their later careers.
To Members of the SUNY-ESF and Syracuse University Community:
It is with great concern that I write to the college community regarding recent incidents involving our students. These incidents have shown disrespect not only for members of our community but also for the values of this institution.
As stated in our strategic plan, "ESF is committed to the highest standards of personal and professional behavior. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives represented in our community. We believe that respect for one's self and others leads to a community characterized by integrity and honor ...Through this concern and compassion for others we continually improve and truly make a difference."
Our commitment to sustain this value must be unwavering. And when it is disregarded, we must respond swiftly and earnestly.
Last week, an ESF student chose to wear a Halloween costume that expressed a negative racial stereotype. The behavior was offensive to many in the ESF as well as the Syracuse University community - students, faculty and staff. This disregard for college values and obvious insensitivity related to diversity cannot be excused or minimized. Currently, this matter is being handled through the ESF judicial process. Dialogues and educational programming about racial and other forms of stereotyping will be presented in ensuing weeks.
Upholding our value of "personal and professional behavior" extends, of course, beyond matters of racially insensitive incidents. We have seen on ESF bulletin boards postings of anti-gay articles, and we have been made aware of homophobic actions against members of our community. We are concerned about underage drinking and binge drinking. We are increasingly aware of issues related to academic integrity. All of these behaviors - and the attitudes which fuel them - do not represent the best traditions of this college. Nor do they prepare students for success in their later careers.
