I’m saddened to share that yesterday afternoon we discovered an anti-Semitic act of vandalism in a library study room. Chief Diversity Officer Troy Riddle and Campus Safety and Security Manager Ali Haleem responded immediately to the scene. After photographing the evidence, the offensive symbol and words were removed immediately. Despite a full-day investigation that included reviewing several days of security-camera tapes, we have not been able to determine who is responsible for this offensive act.
I have also learned that on October 6 and 11, 2016, security received separate reports of a small swastika carved into the edge of a desk in room 420 and on the rubber edge of a table on the second-floor student commons. Both incidents were investigated, but the culprits were not identified.
We at John Marshall value inclusion. We are committed to providing an environment free from harassment and discrimination. We condemn hate. I personally condemn this act and ask you to join me in ensuring that we remain a community that welcomes individuals regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or other characteristic.
The fact that this despicable act occurred during Diversity Week disheartens me even more. Having participated in many events this week, I have observed our students’ spirit, kindness, and willingness to learn and venture outside their comfort zone. Thank you. These are the acts I want to celebrate.
As a community of legal professionals and scholars, we reaffirm our commitment to promote a culture and environment in which ideas may be shared and discussed civilly. And to the person or persons responsible for the vandalism: these acts were cowardly and small-minded, and will only strengthen our resolve to promote diversity, compassion, and open-mindedness.
Within every challenge lies opportunity. As a community, let’s take this opportunity to learn more about each other, to unite in the fight against bigotry and prejudice, and to live law in color.
Dean Darby Dickerson