Pride Union addresses anti-gay incident

First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a socialist.Then they came for the trade-unionist, and I did not speak out because I was not a trade-unionist.Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Jew.Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me. – Reverend Martin Niemoller

Dear Campus Community,

Early on Sunday morning there was an attack on the guest of a Syracuse University student by another alleged student. Based on the information we have, the attack was motivated by anti-gay sentiments. The severity of this event is a serious concern for the entire campus community.

Anti-gay bias such as this attack reflects on everyone’s safety. Furthermore, it brings into question the degree to which we value the diversity of our community. As students on this campus we are extremely saddened that such acts of ignorance and violence can occur here.

The members of Pride Union are deeply concerned for the individuals involved in this incident, and what such acts mean for the entire university. There will be an open forum for students, faculty and staff at some point this evening. Please check your e-mail throughout the day for updates and specific information.

Speak Out.

Matt Ward, Pride Union president

Justin Welch, communications coordinator

Fight terrorism without racism

After reading Friday’s article (PATRIOT Act component restricts foreign students) about the effects of the PATRIOT Act for foreign students, I felt the need to say something in response to the remark ‘For those who still feel the pain of Sept. 11, SEVIS and the rest of the PATRIOT Act are more than justified.’

I must say that as a student who is against the PATRIOT Act, that those who oppose the intrusions on the liberties of all Americans are not numb to the pain of Sept. 11. My heart still breaks every time I think about it – the personal losses felt by so many people and the fear that we all feel that this could happen again.

We must respond to Sept. 11 and terrorism in general without racism. Simply because a person comes from a certain region or has certain accent or faith does not mean that he/she is a terrorist. Fear cannot allow us to hate. This country’s constitution begins with the idea that all humans are created equal – let us prove to the world that we believe this.

Elisabeth Johnson

Class of 2006