Dear Pitzer College Community,

Coverage in a local publication of a recent posting on the free wall has ignited a cycle of violent hate speech that threatens the safety and well-being of every member of our community. Some students are experiencing harassment and death threats.

As a place of higher education, we strongly cherish and defend intellectual curiosity, productive discourse and opposing views that may broaden our perspectives as global citizens. However, when speech resorts to hate, violence and threats, we will not tolerate these acts nor the perpetrators of these actions. If you have information that will help us bring those responsible to justice, please contact the Office of Student Affairs and the Claremont Police Department.

Every individual is entitled to freedom from fear and stigma, and with the respect of others to pursue a life of meaning and purpose. Pitzer College supports greater acceptance, not less.

However each of us chooses to respond to the challenges presented by these ill-considered, offensive and hateful actions, I encourage us to care for one another and focus on our shared positive values. Please participate in today’s Healing Justice Workshop led by Kathy Yep at 3:00 p.m. in McConnell Living Room. This workshop practices mindfulness in a way that creates a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world and does not cause harm to others.

Please reach out and be a source of support for each other and be aware that these additional services are available to you:

  • Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services can be reached by calling (909) 621-8202.
  • Office of Black Student Affairs can be reached at 909-607-3669 and
  • Chicano Latino Student Affairs at 909-621-8044.
  • The Chaplain’s office can be reached at 909-621-8685
  • Queer Resource Center can be reached at 909-607-1817
  • Office of the Dean of Faculty at (909) 621-8217
  • The Office of Student Affairs (909) 607-2821 is available all day to add additional support.

Melvin L. Oliver
President
Pitzer College