Dear Kenyon community,
We know that this continues to be a profoundly difficult time as the violence in Israel and Gaza intensifies and reports of the spread of hate touch closer to home, including on U.S. college campuses. We believe it is all the more important to state clearly and unequivocally what we expect here at Kenyon: Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated on our campus.
While not the norm, there have been examples at Kenyon of rhetoric that vilifies, threatens or stereotypes groups of people. This is disappointing and upsetting, and something our community actively rejects. On the other hand, we have seen numerous instances of actions fully in line with our values. You have called on one another to lead with empathy and engage in dialogue. You have come together in informal gatherings just as you have organized vigils and demonstrations. You have shown up to hear from foreign policy experts and to put the conflict into historical context. You have been open about the hurt and fear words and images can cause. You have shown compassion for people who are suffering in the world, and you have reminded one another that we must do the same for people here.
Kenyon is an educational institution, and our mission depends on the free exchange of ideas and our ability to create spaces for respectful dialogue and conflicting views. By listening to and challenging those with whom we disagree, and even those with whom we agree, we open ourselves and others to learning.
However, this freedom does not extend to expression that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning or work environment, as described in our Civil Rights Policy. If you or someone you know feels that you have been targeted based on your race, religion, nationality or other protected characteristic, please report the incident to the Office for Civil Rights. This can be done anonymously. Please keep in mind that we are unable to act on an incident if it has not been officially reported.
Finally, we ask that you continue to remember that, despite our different views and deeply held beliefs, we are connected in this single Kenyon community. Our words and actions matter, and they, as much as our mission and values, define our institution’s character.
With appreciation,
Julie Kornfeld
President
Jeffrey Bowman
Provost
Celestino Limas
Vice President for Student Affairs