Standing Together – A Message of Unity
The killing of eleven people at a Pittsburgh synagogue on Saturday was the deadliest attack against the Jewish community in United States history.
In this time of profound grief, we reaffirm our support for the Jewish community both locally and throughout the world. The New School will continue to serve as an example of acceptance and tolerance for people of all religions, races, and identities. As an academic institution, we can have a significant role in teaching the need for critical discussion and historic analysis that gives perspective on antisemitism and how bigotry can lead to violence. We can help moderate and counterbalance the public discourse with a complete rejection of antisemitism, racism and all forms of bigotry. We can demonstrate that hate speech is unacceptable and has no place in a civilized society. Only by practicing and espousing these values can we move forward and honor the lives of those who were lost.
When Hitler rose to power 85 years ago, The New School was a haven in the U.S. for scholars whose careers and lives were threatened by Nazi Germany. The University in Exile was formed at The New School to give these scholars and their families a refuge from persecution. Their influence and intellectual presence played a significant part in the history of the university. Today, the New University in Exile Consortium carries on this legacy by building community among rescued scholars and their host institutions. Â
The rise in our country of heinous acts and hateful rhetoric based on people’s differences–religion, race, nationality or citizenship, gender, sexual identity, or political beliefs–is of great concern. Over the past week, we learned about the shooting in Pittsburgh, the targeted murder of African Americans in Kentucky, and bomb threats against prominent political figures. These are all stark reminders that our university must continue to teach, promote, and stand for principles of inclusion, tolerance, and acceptance. Â
Anyone who believes they have experienced bias, discrimination or harassment on our campus is urged to report it. Students who need extra support can email studentsupport@newschool.edu. Employees can seek additional support through the Employee Assistance Program.