Aug. 9, 2016

The intent and purpose of a letter written by University of Michigan-Dearborn Chancellor Daniel Little in December 2015 urging the university community to stand against hate and fear, has recently been distorted in social media.

The letter, dated Dec. 9, 2015, was addressed to faculty, staff and students in the UM-Dearborn community. The chancellor sent the message at the urging of the UM-Dearborn community.

The letter does not advocate for or against a specific presidential candidate.

The letter was written in response to growing bigotry against Muslim Americans.

The letter is consistent with the University of Michigan’s position that attacks directed toward groups based on belief or characteristics are inconsistent with our university community values of respect, civility and equality.

The letter “encourages all who care about equality, inclusiveness and mutual respect to stand up against hate and fear and to find ways to counteracting negative and hurtful words and actions against the Muslim community and all communities on our campus and throughout the country and world.”

You can read the full letter here.