Dear Emory Community,
In many senses, this year has been one of revelation. The acknowledgment of misrepresented admissions data, an admittance of past anti-Semitism and the implementation of curricula changes have made us realize the imperfections of our University. More recently, we have come forth in concern and disappointment over remarks made by students on "The Dooley Show" and by President Wagner in Emory Magazine.
The recent comments have offended and hurt many students on our campus, but they have also reaffirmed an underlying culture of insensitivity and apathy at Emory. We face the irrefutable fact that, as individuals and an institution, we do not yet practice the inclusivity we espouse. Often times, this is not intentional, but it is still harmful, and it must change.
The Student Government Association reaffirms a vision for Emory University, one which is more respectful and inclusive. This spreads across all of campus, from students to administrators to alumni. It extends to a Student Organization and Greek Life system which is accepting to all, to a student conduct process which is unbiased across communities, to the establishment of physical spaces and outlets for the broader minority population and to the presence and responsiveness of advocates at all levels of the University.
The SGA has been partnering with the Change@Emory coalition and the Division of Campus Life to work towards this vision. We are working on many ideas, from curriculum changes to residential programs to a re-envisioning of the use of space on campus. However, there is much more work to be done.
I encourage you to participate in the conversations occurring all around campus and to listen to, understand and advance the dialogue on this divisive issue. One such conversation will be a "Rally against Racism," taking place at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 27 in Asbury Circle of the Atlanta campus.
As always, the SGA welcomes and appreciates continued feedback and suggestions on this matter (sga@emory.edu). And if you would like to voice concerns or suggestions anonymously, you may do so through the Division of Campus Life.
As a student body and a University community, we have been tried and tested many times this year. I have no doubt we will emerge from this chapter in Emory's history as a stronger, more inclusive and respectful community. However, it will require the conscious reflection and deliberate action by each and every one of us. It is time to work towards a better Emory.
Sincerely,
Ashish Gandhi
President, Student Government Assn.
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