01/07/2021
By Jacqueline Moloney

Like so many of you, I was disturbed and dismayed by the violence we saw perpetrated yesterday in the nation’s capitol.

As the images and news reports continued to grow worse through the afternoon, my fear for the safety of those in the building grew. As we witnessed the wanton and irrational actions of those who attacked our capitol, my thoughts turned to my friends and colleagues, such as Congresswoman Lori Trahan. I was devastated that a dedicated and committed civil servant like her, and so many others, were subjected to such threats of violence and disorder. I expect many of you thought that we would never see our country come to this. It was a very low moment for all of us, on top of the tragedies we have all suffered during the pandemic.

It was reassuring last night to watch our elected officials stand tall and move forward with the peaceful transfer of power that our Constitution and civic traditions require. I was grateful to them for their courage and determination to ensure that our democratic principles and processes remain, despite the unruly and unlawful actions of others. I was gratified that so many Americans from all walks of life denounced the actions taken by those who stormed the building and those who enabled them.

I join those leaders who are condemning violence, calling for peace and advocating for working together to heal our divided nation. And as I witnessed what happened, my resolve to engage our community in dialogue that shows a path to conflict resolution has deepened. I am grateful for the many faculty, staff and students at our university who have engaged in constructive teaching, research and service to advance our treasured democracy and are committed to collaborating with others in our community to deepen that important work.

I have great faith that the leadership this country needs is right here at our great university in our students, our employees and our alumni. I look forward to working with all of you to accelerate our advocacy for peace, truth and our nation’s most sacred democratic values. This university and this country will only grow stronger because of it.

During a year where we continue to confront the weight of the battle against this pandemic and the ongoing fight for social justice, please know my thoughts are with each of you and with that brighter future just over the horizon.