Student Leaders Call for Respectful Dialogue on Campus Issues

An open letter to the Duke Community,

The growing tensions caused by the events of the past few weeks are of concern to our entire community.  As a result, many people have felt offended and marginalized.  We recognize that many individuals and communities involved have been justifiably wounded by words, cartoons, columns and responses. 

We affirm that free speech is essential to a vibrant academic community.  The discourse surrounding recent events, however, has taken a negative turn.  Only through considerate discussion can we hope to develop a stronger community of learning where all are welcome.    

It is time to engage in vigorous, respectful discussion about racial, cultural and religious identities without employing stereotypes and unfounded generalizations.  Dialogue and education should occur about the many issues the events of the past two weeks have raised while maintaining civility, open minds, and an awareness of the historical context of the arguments used.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time or the last time that hurtful comments will be made.  But these events do bring an opportunity for productive discussion.  On buses, in classrooms, at dinner, and in our residence halls, we should openly and freely engage in respectful dialogue, both organized and spontaneous.  Faculty should take a short break from their curricula and student groups should allow for space within their agendas to try to change the current campus climate from one of reticent discord to one of respectful, constructive deliberation so that we may achieve the goal of a collective understanding.  Now is the best time to confront this tough situation and prevent future ones by engaging in the kind of civil and enriching conversations that should be a hallmark of our university.

Sincerely,

Brian West, President of AQUA Duke Pascale Thomas, President of the Black Student Alliance Anthony Vitarelli, President of Campus Council Mary Ellison Baars and Alice Williamson, Student Co-Directors of the Community Service Center Sundhar Ramalingam and Hirsh Sandesara, Co-Presidents of Diya Pasha Majdi, President of the Duke Student Government Joel Kliksberg, Vice-President of Community Interaction of the Duke Student Government Kevin Parker, President of the Duke University Union Chris Hopper, Chair of East Campus Council Ryan Welsh, Co-Chair of the First Year Advisory Board Heather Dean, President of the Graduate Professional Student Council Rachael Solomon, Student President of the Freeman Center Will Connolly III, President of the Inter-Fraternity Council Gary Yung, President of the International Council Joe Fore, Executive Secretary of the Inter-Community Council Jessica Chilson, President of the Panhellenic Association Hilary McKean-Peraza and Tomas Lopez, Co-Presidents of Mi Gente Sameer Syed, President of the Muslim Student Association Mike Mahdi, President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council Dave Rausen, Chair of the Student Organization Financial Committee Karen Hauptman, Editor of The Chronicle