President Simon's statement on student-led rally and march

November 23, 2015

I commend the students who organized the rally.

You contribute to making Lehigh better by demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and justice – a commitment I share and one that I believe is widely shared by the members of our university community. 

We see all too many examples of hatred and violence playing out across the world – and playing out much, much closer to home. We see too many examples of hurtful, demeaning, insulting, and sometimes threatening behavior right here on our campus.

By coming together as a community, all of us are making a powerful statement that we will not stand for such actions.   

On a daily basis, Lehigh students, faculty, and staff are working to improve the climate on our campus. I’d like to see more of us engaged in that work.

We know we have much to do to make Lehigh the welcoming and inclusive community we aspire to be. The gathering was part of that work. I welcome the opportunity to do this important work with you.

Thank you.

Click here for the story about the student-led march and rally on Nov. 23 to raise awareness of racism on college campuses.