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A Message to the Campus on Possible Hate Crime
To Members of the University Community:
The University of Maryland is proud of its great diversity and deeply committed to the right of all members of our family to work and live in an environment in which they feel safe, and respected. The recent report of a possible hate crime, which is now under investigation by our Department
of Public Safety, is of great concern. The possibility that this act appears intended to bring to mind the horrific crime of lynching, which is such a terrible and tragic part of our nation's past, is particularly abhorrent.
The University of Maryland will not tolerate discrimination, harassment or acts
of hate. All members of our community should be aware that incidents that run
counter to our inclusiveness should be reported to one of the offices listed
at the end of this letter.
I know that I speak for the entire University of Maryland community in saying that we are dismayed at this possible hate crime. We know that the successful investigation of this act and the apprehension of those responsible will be greatly assisted by members of the campus community who come forward with information.
I want to assure the campus community that Chief Ken Krouse will use every means at his disposal to aggressively track down the culprits—including reviewing all campus video equipment, examining all physical evidence at the scene, meeting with students and other members of the university family—to affirm that we all stand together against any such acts. Any person or persons found guilty of this act will be subject to the university’s full judicial process and any possible criminal actions.
I thank the campus community for standing in unity against the spirit and execution of such acts.
C. D. Mote, Jr., President
Contacts:
- In general, if you are concerned about safety, contact the UM Police Department (911 for emergencies; 301.405.3555 for non-emergencies).
- In general, if you feel you have been discriminated against, contact Roger Candelaria, Campus Compliance Officer, Office of Human Relations at 301.405.2839.
- In the residence halls, notify your resident assistant or resident director of an incident. They will immediately respond to the incident and provide you with further support.
- Any other concerns can be directed to Warren Kelley, 301.314.8431, Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Dr. Kelley can help you access a number of options and channels specifically designed to respond to hate incidents and harassment.