In the wake of the 2016 Election, many people are scared. Hate crimes across the country have spiked, just since Tuesday night. From 3rd graders chanting "Build a wall!" to roommates building a makeshift border between their rooms, students are feeling uneasy just about everywhere. Many college students are opting to skip classes, either out of grief or fear of safety. Schools around the country are becoming unsafe for minority students, but at Purdue University, the story is a little different.
On Thursday, Nov. 10, the office of Purdue University Provost, Deba Dutta, Ph D., released a statement to the faculty and staff affiliated with the cultural centers on campus. Her letter was one of support and praise for the work the centers do to foster diversity and inclusion on Purdue's campus. While the letter does not explicitly state that it is coming in response to Trump's presidential election, Dutta writes that "recent events sought to diminish members of our society." This letter, coming from a high-ranking member of Purdue's faculty, comes as a breath of fresh air as hostility is escalated around the country.
Dutta writes:
"Diversity is an essential component of the academic excellence that distinguishes Purdue around the world. The University firmly believes that diversity strengthens the institution, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches campus life."
This support from Provost Dutta, and by extension, Purdue University, is something the calm the nerves of so many terrified students, staff, and faculty, who fear for their own safety in the wake of the election. The support of the University for the cultural centers and the diversity they attempt to foster gives these Boilermakers hope and a sense of stability.
Purdue University is home to five cultural centers, who work tirelessly to protect, encourage, and recruit minority students. This year alone has been great for diversity on this campus. The Native American Education & Cultural Center and the Asian & Asian American Cultural Center moved to new, more central locations on campus. The Black Cultural Center has increased its programming and presence on campus. The Latino Cultural Center's new director is dedicated to serving the student body, and the LGBTQ Center has been growing in awareness and programming. The support of the Provost is just what Purdue needs to keep a level head as so much of the country has turned to turmoil.
Provost Dutta writes, "I stand ready to support you," is an immaculate display of dedication and gratitude for the work being done by these cultural centers. It is a display of support for the diversity on this campus, and hope for all to come.
