Jamestown  (uj.edu)   University of Jamestown President, Dr. Polly Peterson has issued a statement to the community.

“I begin by sharing my deep sadness for the acts of violence and hate that have occurred in recent days. The acts of police brutality exhibited by some of those entrusted to keep us safe have incited our nation. We applaud those who are gathering peacefully to insist on systemic change. Violence directed against individuals because of their skin color is reprehensible and must end. Appropriating otherwise peaceful, meaningful protests to incite violence and/or for personal gain in the way that some individuals have is wrong and makes facilitating the important dialogue we must engage in more difficult. In the aftermath of quarantine and isolation, we must not only speak up, but also directly support one another when we witness any discrimination due to race, religion, age, social status, or sexual orientation. The University of Jamestown is a Christian university committed to inclusion, tolerance, and the dignity of all humanity, and we stand united in our belief that racism has no place here, or anywhere.

As an institution of higher education founded in the Presbyterian tradition, we embrace the liberal arts and the ongoing search for knowledge and truth as a way of liberating the human spirit and understanding the world we share with others. We promote education as a means to improve lives. We must accept our responsibility to build nurturing communities that are inclusive, supportive, and empowering, and ones that respect and embrace the differences in all of us. Fundamental to the UJ experience is a commitment to servant leadership; now, more than ever, we must stand united in service to all.

Please join me in this effort.

Dr. Polly Peterson