Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2016

NMU Student, Faculty and Staff,

Now that a week has passed since the presidential election, I'd like to share a few of my thoughts. It is certainly an interesting time to belong to a university community, where teaching and learning are paramount, and open discussion is fostered and encouraged. This is a point in our nation's history when the potential for change looms large and when passion about the direction the country takes on critical issues is on display. What can we learn from this pinnacle point in time? What can we teach about it?

I'm proud of the thoughtful and respectful stand that NMU students, faculty and staff have taken during and since the election on issues that are important to them. Last week's peaceful rally for solidarity and unity on the academic mall was an excellent example of how to make one's voice and opinions heard without disregard for one another's viewpoints. I'm sure this afternoon's post-presidential election panel, sponsored by the NMU Political Science Department, will be the same (5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, 1318 Jamrich Hall).

It is understandable that some members of our community may feel vulnerable in the light of campaign rhetoric. While it is unknown what the future impact will be, one thing that is certain is that Northern values diversity and all people who belong to our community. Our diversity makes us stronger and more vibrant; it prepares us to be better members of our global and domestic society. Today and tomorrow, Northern will remain welcoming and committed to all students, employees and guests.

Whether you are someone who supports President-elect Trump or you are concerned what may come from the Trump administration, we can all participate in the national dialogue that has been started by the recent campaign and election, and we can do this in civil and insightful ways. We start by listening to one another's opinions, ideas and concerns. We also need to keep in mind that while freedom of speech is vitally important, we will not tolerate acts of harassment or intimidation taken against anyone. Now is the time to demonstrate our best selves, to support those who are feel marginalized and to show respect to everyone, including those with whom we disagree.

Mahatma Gandhi is credited with saying, "A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people." The same is true for a university's culture. Knowing that Northern has some of the most compassionate and intelligent students, faculty and staff that I've ever had the honor to work for and beside gives me confidence that we will consider this time of change with dignity, solidarity and the same can-do attitude with which we approach each day. I also believe, both as a nation and a university, we have some amazing teaching, learning and sharing opportunities in the coming days and months ahead when we may not always agree, but we will have the potential to grow in our understanding of one another.

Remember, Northern has a variety of services available for those who are in need of assistance at this time. Please report any inappropriate behavior to the Janet Koski of the Equal Opportunity Office (jakoski@nmu.edu, 227-2420). If you have ideas to help the campus further explore any of the topics focused on during the campaign and election, or if you have personal concerns, please contact Jessica Cruz, chief diversity and inclusion office, at the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (501 Cohodas, 227-2000, jecruz@nmu.edu).

Sincerely,
Fritz Erickson, NMU President