In recent months and even more recent weeks, our country and world have been faced with adversity. Recent happenings are truly tragic. When faced which such tragedy, there are two choices: to keep moving forward, or to succumb to the hostility that contradicts our country’s and our university’s core values. As the home of the Phoenix, we will continue to work with Elon students, faculty and staff to promote inclusivity and positive growth on campus.
In recent months and even more recent weeks, our country and world have been faced with adversity. Senseless acts of hatred have left members of the LGBTQ, Black, Muslim, various minority groups, and Police communities dead, afraid, and hurt. Unfortunately the latest incidences to make headlines aren’t the only cases where people have been threatened simply for existing in their own skin — for every act of violent prejudice that makes the news, there are countless others we’ll never know about.
As Elon students we pride ourselves on our international, socioeconomic, and cultural diversity, and more importantly we take pride in our University’s commitment to further diversifying our robust student and faculty body. When the country mourns the unnecessary death of a young black man, please know that your Student Government Association mourns as well. When members of the LGBTQ community question why their sexual identity becomes a threat to their livelihood, your Student Government Association is also wondering what we can do to make sure that threat stays clear of our campus. When Muslims are advised to veil their religious affiliation when in public in the United States, please understand that your Student Government Association is committed to ensuring our entire campus is a safe space for people of all religious affiliations. And when police officers are attacked without cause, know that SGA continues to maintain a partnership with the local and university police departments that work tirelessly to keep our campus safe. As your Student Government Association we serve you, the student body — regardless of ethnic, religious, racial, and sexual identifiers.
Recent happenings are truly tragic. When faced which such tragedy, there are two choices: to keep moving forward, or to succumb to the hostility that contradicts our country’s and our university’s core values. Elon University is the home of the Phoenix — we rise. Student Government Association takes this symbolism very seriously, and will continue to push forward. We will continue to work with Elon students, faculty and staff to promote inclusivity and positive growth. This includes continuing to engage in the conversations that were started last school year about race relations on campus, feeling welcome as an international student when surrounded by American students, and other topics that are difficult yet necessary to discuss.
As the summer moves forward and the fall semester approaches, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your student government representatives. We are a resource. The Student Issues website is a great way to bring concerns to our attention. You may also connect with us on Twitter and Instagram (@elonsga), as well as on Facebook (/elonsga). Please also consider other on campus resources including the CREDE and counseling services.
Wishing everyone a peaceful July and August! See you in the fall!