Dynamic Pluralism in Chaotic Times

This morning I sent the following message to the campus community.

Dear friends,

It is so good to be back on campus with colleagues and students. I’ve met with my class a couple of times, and I still get a thrill teaching in the new Frank Center for Public Affairs. Early in the morning, Kari, Lola, and I see athletes heading to practice before dawn; there are art openings in the afternoon; and I’m told the libraries are abuzz late into the night. Wes is alive and well.

Yet looking around the world, we recognize these are anxious times. And sad times, too. Wednesday night’s plane accident in Washington, D.C., reminds us how suddenly an experience we take for granted can become a tragedy. In the chaos of this past week many of us have realized how much we, and our institutions, took for granted our dependence on the government. From Pell Grants and student loans to research support and so much more, universities across the country have relied on governmental support while maintaining their autonomy to teach and learn as they see fit. Freedom of expression—with respect to artistic practice or scholarly research—has long been compatible with government support. This has been good for the country, for our students and teachers—and for the wider world of learning.

Internationalization has also been good for learning. Each year Wesleyan welcomes hundreds of students from around the world, along with dozens of teachers, researchers, and artists. These visitors, along with immigrants to the United States, make an enormous contribution for which we are grateful.

If we hadn’t fully realized it before, we surely now recognize that elections have consequences. But that doesn’t mean that we should be silent in the face of intimidation, scapegoating, and violations of the rule of law. As I’ve said in the past, the University will do everything it can to protect the most vulnerable among us. We remain committed to principles of non-discrimination, including equal protection, regardless of gender, national origin, or citizenship. I am appalled by the attacks on trans people and immigrants. Defending the most vulnerable among us is a duty.

Our university has for decades worked to enhance the educational power of diversity, and we continue to do so. While powerful forces have demonized a caricature of DEI, we remain steadfast in our efforts to treat everyone in our community fairly while helping them feel they belong. These efforts are key to the dynamic pluralism that we seek to cultivate.

In the coming weeks and months, you may have questions about how you or how Wesleyan will be affected by changes in governmental policies. Please reach out to Human Resources or to Academic and Class Deans for help. My office stands at the ready to do what it can.

Wesleyan is almost 200 years old and has seen turbulent times before. We will navigate the current situation consistent with our mission to create “a diverse, energetic community of students, faculty, and staff who think critically and creatively and who value independence of mind and generosity of spirit.” It is so good to be in your company!

Sincerely,

Michael S. Roth
President

11 thoughts on “Dynamic Pluralism in Chaotic Times”

  1. Inviting and embracing people with diverse opinions, ethnic and economic backgrounds, varying sexual and ethnic identities is the essence of creating an environment where people learn from each other.

    Favoring one group or another and/or marginalizing those with specific beliefs is the anti-thesis of creating an environment where people learn to think clearly and critically.

    I don’t envy your job, President Roth, of trying to facilitate the former and extinguish the latter. But I sense you understand both the benefits and extreme challenges of the situation and applaud you for meeting them head-on.

  2. Thanks for emphasizing Wesleyan’s ongoing commitment to maintain compassion and dignity for all of our students, faculty and visiting scholars. Wesleyan is a beacon of hope in its enhancement of liberal learning in the service of maintaining a just and democratic society. Thank you also for your recent op-ed articles in the New York Times.

  3. Thank you for your clear headed, ethical and supportive response to the terrible storm we are facing. We are incredibly grateful our daughter is part of the Wesleyan community, and for your outstanding leadership.

  4. Thanks for the thoughtful commentary and encouraging words, President Roth. As a parent of a Wesleyan student, I am grateful that my child is part of a strong, supportive community led by a person of conviction who champions the values we all should strive to foster and emulate.

  5. Thank you! Perfect message for these times.

    You are always such a bright spot in dark dialogues, and a clear voice for what is decent and true and represents the best vision of humanity.

    Our family is deeply, wildly grateful that you exist and that we are part of your, and Wesleyan’s, extended community!

  6. Michael
    Since the moment I met you(a way of saying)i found on you.the most intelligent Professor I have ever met
    Remember that I am Spanish Spoken
    and your lessons made me continue
    the way with my highest entusiasm
    You are the support .Thank you. Thank you.thank you.
    Graciela Gonzalez Sorrondegui
    Montevideo.Uruguay

  7. Michael
    Strength and power and resilience to you in these difficult times. You help us keep the faith.
    Richard

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