Dear Lawrence parents and alumni,
Through the fall, students at many colleges and universities have pressed issues of racism and the need for more inclusive communities. Lawrence students joined this conversation by demonstrating in downtown Appleton and presenting a list of requests to me Tuesday night. Since then students, faculty, and staff have debated the merits of these requests through social media, in classrooms, and on campus. We need to work toward civil discourse as a community so that we can discuss our different opinions in a constructive way.
Some of the core student demands are ones we have investigated and discussed over the past year. They connect directly with existing initiatives, which would strengthen the education we offer. At the same time, we need to reinforce the value of free exchange of different opinions and perspectives. Our classrooms must remain places where open exchange is possible. As we develop ways to enhance the study of race and identity in our curriculum, and as we work to create a campus community, where all students can thrive, our efforts will be strengthened by continuing conversation among us. This is true for institutions across the country. And it is central to our learning environment.
I have attached a letter sent on Monday, from me to the campus community, as well as one sent by Vice President Truesdell yesterday. Please feel free to contact me or other campus colleagues if more information would be helpful .I wish you all a happy Thanksgiving and I hope our paths cross soon.
Yours,
Mark