UofL reaffirms values after incidents

Dear Cardinal Family,

As some of you may know, sometime overnight on Jan. 15, a Pride banner was stolen at our College of Business and pamphlets denouncing the validity of our elections and democratic government were posted by a white supremacist hate group at various locations throughout campus. In the last few weeks, we also have seen a number of bias-related incidents, including vandalism and hostile interactions directed at people of color.

First, I want to say I am saddened these incidents have happened and reject the message that they send. I want everyone to know that the University of Louisville condemns these actions and does not tolerate any communications or actions that promote bias, hate or prejudice of any kind against any group.

Upon learning of this incident, the university’s Physical Plant Department immediately removed the pamphlets from campus. The UofL Police Department is investigating these incidents.

At UofL, we are a Community of Care. This means we support and respect each other for the diversity of thought, perspective and life experience each person brings to our campus community. As one of our Cardinal Principles states, we celebrate Diversity and Inclusion because we want everyone in the Cardinal Family to feel included and valued.

Events of this kind can cause distress among our students, faculty and staff. Please know that there are resources at UofL for you to turn to as needed. For students, the Office of Diversity and Equity can provide a safe space to express concerns and work through anger. The Counseling Center can help students who feel marginalized or otherwise upset. Faculty and staff can also turn to the Office of Diversity and Equity and the university Employee Assistance Program for help.

The university will never tolerate hate speech or hateful actions that harm the dignity of all people. Please know the university is committed to resolving this issue and other incidents in a spirit of respect, compassion and caring.

Sincerely,

V. Faye Jones, MD

Senior Associate Vice President, Diversity & Equity

University of Louisville