NatSci Statement following 2016 Election
November 2016
Dear College of Natural Science Students, Faculty and Staff,
Although the election season has been extremely divisive, as Spartans, we are committed to respecting people of all backgrounds, beliefs, identity status and political beliefs. Inclusion and diversity are core values of MSU and the College of Natural Science. All members of the MSU community deserve each other’s respect, support, recognition, and protection.
It is important that we recognize that many members of our Spartan community, including people of color, members of the Muslim and LGBTQ communities, immigrants, people with disabilities, and people at the intersections of these groups, are feeling vulnerable, anxious, afraid, and uncertain right now. The College is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where all students, faculty, and staff can pursue academic and professional success. There have been reports of very troubling, recent events effecting members of the College. NatSci does not tolerate actions that are discriminatory or hateful towards any member of our community.
We must all stand up against racist, sexist, and other discriminatory language and actions whenever we see them, in order to create a respectful and inclusive campus. If you experience or witness acts of bias or discrimination, please report these to the Office of Institutional Equity.
NatSci advisors, faculty, and staff are here to support our students. Professional counselors are also available at the MSU Counseling Center. Next week there will be Healing Spaces to debrief and process the election, which are sponsored by Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS), the Counseling Center, and student organizations. These will be held in the MSU Union, Lake Superior Room on Monday, November 14th and Tuesday, November 15th from 7-9 pm.
In addition, the Office of Cultural & Academic Transitions (OCAT) will be holding Real Talks every Wednesday and Thursday from 3-5pm in the Student Services Building, room 339. These are safe spaces to discuss current issues and experiences. All students are welcome to attend these events (see attached flyers).
There is the University-wide Inclusion@MSU campaign. Campaign images are available at https://db.tt/yNZstcbg.
We must continue to promote positive interactions and dialogue across difference. It is essential that we work together to foster an inclusive community for all Spartans.
Sincerely,
The College of Natural Science Council on Diversity & Community and
R. James Kirkpatrick, Dean