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October 25, 2019

Dear members of the Mount Holyoke community,

Some of you may be aware that the Smith College campus was recently defaced by an overt act of anti-Semitism. Swastikas were discovered on the walls of three buildings. They are an ugly reminder of the work that remains ahead of us. 

I am in solidarity with my colleague  the hatred and cowardice that invoking these symbols represents.  

The use of this symbol is meant to terrorize and demean our Jewish friends, family and colleagues. This symbol is an act of violence perpetrated against our entire community but has specific implications for the Jewish community, given the history and legacy associated with it. With the anniversary of the Tree of Life shooting also upon us, the Mount Holyoke College community expresses its solidarity with the Jewish community, with our friends and colleagues on the Smith College campus, and with all those here at home. We must ensure that we continue to signal to those who would attack us that there is no place for hatred here.

These very issues were addressed on our campus yesterday evening in Professor Alexandra Stern’s public lecture, “Tracing the History of A Toxic Present: Anti-Semitism and Resurgent White Nationalism.” The Mount Holyoke community continues to engage in educational opportunities to combat anti-Semitism and raise awareness of the pernicious nature of its resurgence. This important discussion, sponsored by many partners and coordinated by the departments of Jewish studies, religion and history, is a part of our ongoing efforts to educate members of our community and develop allies who will work in solidarity to end anti-Semitism.

During Interfaith Awareness Week, and always, we are committed to cultivating a stronger community of people who engage across beliefs, faiths and identities. In support and solidarity today and over the weekend:

• The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life will have chaplains and open hours available today from 2:15 to 4:15 pm in the Eliot House lounge. 
• Latrina Denson, associate dean of students for community and inclusion, will have office hours today from 2 to 3 pm.
• Annette McDermott, dean of religious and spiritual life, is available today from 1:45 to 3 pm in Blanchard Hall 205. 
• The Counseling Service will also have regularly scheduled Drop-In hours today from 2 to 4 pm in Blanchard Hall 216. 
• The weekly Shabbat services will be tonight in the Eliot House at 5 pm and are open to the entire community. There is also a plan for those who wish to join the Smith College community at their Shabbat. Please contact the Office of Religious & Spiritual Life if you would like more information. 
• The Jewish Student Union will be holding a space for mourning and community support on the anniversary of the Tree of Life shooting, and to show solidarity with others affected by the recent swastika vandalism at Smith College, in the Unity Center on Sunday, Oct. 27, from 6 to 8 pm.

Campus police have been instructed to be especially aware of any such symbols on our own campus so that they can be promptly removed. Please remember that it is important to report anything that concerns you in order to help keep our campus safe. Campus police can be reached at 413-538-2304.

This act of violence and hatred is a harrowing reminder for us all that the work of standing against hatred is never done. At this moment, and in the days, weeks and months to come, let us remember to be in community with one another, to express our solidarity and to extend kindness, love and support to each other. 

With great sadness and in solidarity,

Sonya Stephens
President