Statement Correcting the Co-sponsorship of Transitional Justice Lecture

April 13, 2022

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion was incorrectly identified as a co-sponsor for a campus lecture titled “Unfinished Business: Zionism as Racism and Racial Discrimination.” As worded, this title does not invite participation and engagement with all members of our community and does not represent the values of our university.

Academic freedom and freedom of expression are bedrock principles of this institution and are necessary for the exploration of controversial, divisive or uncomfortable issues – even those that are in opposition to this university’s clearly stated positions and values.

Any future lectures in this series will make it clear that these are not sponsored by our office nor do the viewpoints expressed represent the university.

I am sorry for any additional discomfort or distress some may have felt when it appeared that it was sponsored or endorsed by the office that is charged with helping us turn the aspiration of belonging and inclusion into a universal practice.

Sincerely,

Sean C. Garrick
Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion