Evergreen Students, Staff and Faculty,
Yesterday’s elections profoundly affect all of us. As we consider the many outcomes, our reactions may vary depending on the campaign in question and on our individual views and positions. But the divisiveness of the political rhetoric over the past months has alienated and discouraged many, leaving individuals and entire groups feeling left out—of the electoral process, of political discourse, or even of the society. Many are likely to fear the future.
Together, we must consider what the role of an institution of higher learning should be on such a day. A college is, of course, a place of learning where we have a responsibility to apply the tools of reasoned inquiry. An understanding of history, the role of broad social and economic forces and the critical importance of interdisciplinary analysis are all needed. In this way, each of us can reach a deeper understanding of the world in which we live, the causes and significance of seismic political events, and the actions required of us as individuals.
A college is also a community. This morning, it is more important than ever that Evergreen be an inclusive community. Regardless of their beliefs, background or orientation, everyone at Evergreen has a place here. More than ever, Evergreen must be a community in which we care for ourselves and each other.
With that support in mind, the college is offering a number of opportunities today to help people de-stress and navigate post-election implications, emotions and ways forward. See the schedule on Greener Commons (and the details below). I strongly encourage you to participate, for your benefit and for the benefit of others in our community.
More than ever, we must uphold our fundamental commitment to our values of civic engagement, civil dialogue, and constructive social change. Doing so will require advocates and participants. Evergreen can provide both if we act on our longstanding values embodied in our Social Contract of learning across and respecting differences and, as our Six Expectations describe, participating collaboratively and responsibly in our diverse society.
It’s possible that we will witness some backlash to various election outcomes. Unfortunately, such a backlash may adversely target some members of the Evergreen community and those in our wider community. Please join me in promoting respectful responses to discourage these activities. I encourage us to seek constructive solutions to the challenges our country and our community face.
And by all means, let’s agree to come together, to support each other and find opportunities to promote the values and practices that strengthen us all.
Most sincerely,
George
Post-Election Resources and Activities
Need a place to wind down after the election?
Check out these offerings to help you de-stress, get centered and look ahead!
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9
Trans and Queer Center will be open in Library 2147, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
First Peoples Multicultural Advising Services staff and peers will be available in Library 1001 to talk to students and provide a gathering space for the community, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Contribute to the “Hope for the Future” community creative project sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs, Library 2nd Floor Lobby, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Post-election Relaxation Station sponsored by Student Wellness Services, Library 3rd Floor Mezzanine, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Counseling Resources – For students who need assistance, Student Wellness Services will have counseling providers available on Wednesday for drop in counseling services, Seminar I, Room 2110, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2 – 6:30 p.m.
Post-Election Forum: Navigating the Changes Ahead
Recital Hall, Communications Building, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Many students and community members have expressed anxiety about the elections and what the future holds. This forum is designed to provide analysis of the election results and what they mean in terms of the rhetoric, policies, and potentials for ongoing social change. Following presentations, we will provide students with space to ask questions, air their concerns, and figure out what comes next.
Nick Licata, longtime Seattle City Council member, will speak about the elections, drawing insights from his new book, Becoming a Citizen Activist: Strategies & Advice for Changing Our World. Nick was the first person in his family to graduate high school, and as a college student in the 1960s, was a member of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS). Described as “one of Seattle’s most effective leaders of political and social change,” Licata argues that recent waves of social activism like the Occupy movement and Black Lives Matter show that you can fight city hall–or any other powerful entity—and make a difference in today’s world.
With post-election commentary by Evergreen faculty members:
- Sarah Eltantawi, Comparative Religion & Islamic Studies
- Larry Mosqueda, Political Science & Political Economy
- Doug Schuler, Civic Intelligence & Computer Science
Sponsored by The Global Hunt for Civic Intelligence & the Academic Deans