Dear UO alumni,

As you may know from recent news reports, emotions are high on the UO campus since Halloween and the elections. I wanted to reach out and provide an update of what’s happened, and inform you of what the UO is doing to assure a safe campus environment and provide a forum for all voices to be heard, specifically from constituents who are feeling the most vulnerable.

First off, let me emphasize that the University of Oregon Alumni Association, along with the University of Oregon, values the diversity of our campus, and we seek to foster equity and inclusion in a welcoming, safe, and respectful community. We will not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment. These values must be expressed as more than words, and require action. 

We are in a historic moment as a nation, and regardless of our individual affiliations or convictions, change can be challenging. The uncertainties of such change can test the depth of shared values and norms. The UOAA—along with our faculty, staff, and leaders—is focused on helping move the UO forward in a positive direction. 

To recap what has happened on campus:

• Blackface at Halloween party: University of Oregon School of Law faculty member Nancy Shurtz wore a costume that included blackface at a private, off-campus party at her own home that was attended by UO faculty members and students. A complaint was launched, and per UO policy, Shurtz has been placed on administrative leave.
• Election protests: Several hundred UO students representing a range of organizations and communities voiced their concerns over president-elect Donald Trump with demonstrations on campus and a march to downtown Eugene.
• Blackface on campus: On Wednesday night, November 9, a UO student confronted three middle-school age youths on campus wearing blackface. The encounter took place outside a meeting of the Black Student Union.
• Social media targeting: UO student Natashia Greene reported a social media message directed at her that contained explicit racist language.

While tensions are high, and many students are feeling angry, pained, and concerned, the responses by our administration and student body have been timely and considered. I’ve included a list of links to official UO statements, responses, and services.

Last Friday afternoon I attended a two-hour community rally at the EMU, organized by the Black Student Union. There were many speakers, including students, parents, and administrators. These speakers addressed feelings, expectations, fears and hopes. Many people, including deans, vice presidents, administrators, and faculty were there to provide support and show solidarity with the students. President Michael Schill addressed the crowd and reiterated his commitment to a campus that is inclusive and belongs to all its constituents, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

As the executive director of the UOAA, I stand with President Schill and share these intrinsic values. The UOAA and the UO remain committed to true diversity and an environment that provides safety and comfort for every individual and group. 

I hope this information provides some clarity and is useful when fellow Ducks or friends ask you about the environment on campus; you can assure others that the university is taking action in a difficult time.

Best,
 

Kelly Menachemson
Executive Director
University of Oregon Alumni Association