Condemning Violence at Political Rally in Pennsylvania
Dear University of Maine and University of Maine at Machias communities,
We at the University of Maine and the University of Maine at Machias, along with colleagues around the world within higher education and beyond, condemn yesterday’s attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump and the injuries and loss of life that occurred at the political event in Pennsylvania. In our universities we unequivocally endorse the rights of individuals to participate in lawful and civil discourse and free inquiry without fear of violence and reprisal.
We share the sentiments expressed in a message from University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy:
“As the Chancellor of the University of Maine System, I want to unequivocally state that we condemn and abhor violence of any kind, including the unprecedented act of violence tonight at former President Trump’s political event in Pennsylvania. The right of the people to peaceably assemble is among our nation’s foremost freedoms. I stand with all Americans in thanking the Secret Service for their quick action, which undoubtedly prevented greater loss of life, and in praying for the health of the former President and those in attendance, and for our nation. This shocking incident does not reflect who we are as Americans, nor how we resolve our differences. Now more than ever, Maine’s public universities are committed to fostering free inquiry and respectful, civil discourse among those with diverse viewpoints. We must all strive to be and do better and to uphold the values that unite us and have long made our democracy a shining example to the world.”
University of Maine students, faculty, or staff in need of support can contact the UMaine Office of Student Life at 207.581.1406 or um.studentlife@maine.edu; the UMS Employee Assistance Program at 1.877.622.4327 or www.myCigna.com; or the Counseling Center at 207.581.1392 or umaine.counseling@maine.edu after July 15.
Sincerely,
Joan Ferrini-Mundy
President