"We Are A Diverse Community Of Mavericks" | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

"We Are A Diverse Community Of Mavericks"

An open letter to the UNO vandals.

15
"We Are A Diverse Community Of Mavericks"

Dear UNO Vandals,

You are trying to scare people and you will fail. You left hateful and racist comments and pictures in the Arts and Sciences building and in the Community Engagement Center. The university's response was quick and clear: your behavior is not acceptable on our campus.

Our university prides itself on its commitment to diversity and inclusion. I have been so proud at the steps UNO has taken to make our campus a welcoming learning environment for ALL students. Coming from a small town, I was amazed when I stepped on campus and saw so many people that were different from me. I was so excited to step out of my bubble and learn about and from others who weren't in my little Gretna, Nebraska bubble. We are here to learn. What can we learn if we only listen to those who look and think like ourselves?

I was so disappointed when I saw what you did. You have been emboldened by hateful rhetoric and you acted on hate and fear of the "other". You may think that what you did was funny or okay, and I am here to tell you that you are wrong. This is not okay. This is not normal. This will not be tolerated.

I want to make my message clear: I will not accept this kind of behavior on campus or anywhere else.

So now, what to do? I could rant and rave at you until my face turned blue, but I won't. I will continue to do the only thing I can, and that is to spread love and acceptance and to stand up to ignorance and hate when I see it happening. UNO is a place where anyone can learn. I would argue that the most important things we learn in our four years come from each other. I know that I will walk away from our campus with an understanding of the world around me and the people in it.

You might look at people who are different from you and be afraid. They may look a different way, they may speak a different language, and they may pray to a different God. I implore you to reach out to those people instead of shying away. Because, in the words of Maya Angelou:

"We seek success in Finland,
are born and die in Maine.
In minor ways we differ,
in major we're the same.

I note the obvious differences
between each sort and type,
but we are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike."

Lastly, I would just like to say that you are welcome here. However, your hate is not.

Stay kind my friends.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

13199
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

5786
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4289
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

3787
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments