Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Yesterday, Building Services staff found swastikas drawn in Lincoln Hall and the Armory, and another one was later found in Greg Hall. This follows a recent incident where a now-former employee left a noose on a table in a work area.

Facilities and Services staff working with the police removed the swastikas within an hour of discovery. Police think this vandalism happened between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. in Lincoln Hall, between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. in the Armory and between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in Greg Hall. Investigators are reviewing security camera footage, and they ask that anyone with information contact them at 333-1216.

The probationary employee responsible for the noose incident was dismissed from the university shortly after admitting to making it.

This academic year we’ve seen threatening anonymous Facebook posts directed at our African American students and demeaning chalkings targeting Latinas and Latinos. We condemn acts like these that are intended to intimidate particular groups and do not advance legitimate discourse and debate.

When we encounter situations of intolerance, threats or violence, we are committed to responding quickly and decisively, which in some cases may include disciplinary actions or criminal prosecution.

Let’s conclude this year with a steadfast commitment to being welcoming and supportive of each other, and to demonstrating – with our words and acts – what it means to be a member of the Illinois family.

Sincerely,

Barbara Wilson
Interim Chancellor

Edward Feser
Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost

Renee Romano
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

 

   
     
   
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