Give me a break!-----MSU President Stanley addresses display at Wharton Center

MSU President Stanley addresses display at Wharton Center

"Dear Spartans:

I write to you about another incident that has left many members of our community horribly offended, outraged and frustrated. 

It has prompted many to question the safety of our campus and our commitment to inclusivity.

Last week, a display at the Wharton Center gift shop depicted current and historical African American figures hanging from trees. 

This was a disturbing reminder of our country’s history of terror and unrelenting brutality that targeted individuals based on their race. 

Members of our community were hurt. 
Though this display was created to honor prominent African Americans during Black History Month, we cannot ignore the historical context that made it exceedingly painful and traumatic to our community members.

This display was unacceptable and should never have been put up.
I’m sorry that this happened. It has been taken down.
...As I communicated to you last fall after other insensitive and bias incidents on campus, regardless of intent, actions can create painful consequences for many.

In light of this, I want you all to know we are taking the situation at Wharton Gifts very seriously. 

The center is undergoing a full restructuring of staff, including management, and will make diversity within its workforce and volunteers a priority. 
In addition, mandatory racial-bias education and development for all staff and volunteers will begin Feb. 12, coordinated by the MSU Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives....

Racial bias education efforts will be a continued part of ongoing employee development at the Wharton Center. 

...I want those who have felt the visceral impact of this incident to know that they are heard — by me and every leader of this university.
...The Wharton Center recognizes the need for greater diversity among its staff and volunteers and for creating an environment that reflects our best efforts. 
However, they are not alone in that need. 
Our entire campus must view this as an opportunity to learn and reflect on what we can and should do to create a safe and inclusive culture, and we must hold ourselves accountable for achieving these goals.

There is more to be done, but I am confident that together we will succeed in creating an inclusive community of which we all can be proud.

Sincerely,

Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.

President"