Recent incidents have caused us to reflect on how to handle issues of race and intolerance on campus. The recent use of Twitter to promote bigotry and intolerance has many wondering how far the Murray State community has really come. Murray State is a culturally diverse campus and we have seen the benefits of that diversity. However, with that said, rights are given by the United States Constitution for others to have opposing views.
We can look to the characteristics of an MSU Graduate to help us dictate how we express any divergent views and values within our community.
“The sixth characteristic of the MSU graduate is an understanding of the dynamics of cultural diversity, of competing economic and political systems and of complex moral and ethnical issues.”
“The seventh characteristic of the MSU graduate is the understanding of the importance of and engagement in ethical behavior and responsible citizenship.”
Students should not wait until they have graduated and then seek to espouse these characteristics. Faculty and staff should not only assume students should exhibit these characteristics. We should begin now by speaking out against injustice and intolerance in our community. Many may say this is not their issue or concern; however, it is everyone’s issue and concern if we are to consider this a true intellectual community. A few misguided persons should not set the agenda, control the climate or dictate the direction of the campus community.
Remember, “Silence is Acceptance,” so speak loudly against all forms of hate.
Commentary by Don Robertson, vice president of student affairs and S.G. Carthell, director of the office of multicultural affairs.