Nov. 9, 2016

“People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.”  ― Martin Luther King Jr.

As SMTD students, faculty and staff we are equipped and surrounded by a powerful and universal method of communication – the arts.  We are fortunate to be able to express our deepest emotions and varying perspectives through music, theatre, dance, and scholarship on a regular basis.  We are the same SMTD as we were yesterday, aspiring to be relevant in our ever changing world.

Fortunately, we have the means to connect with each other in creative ways, as we respectfully share our thoughts and feelings to build bridges and tear down walls. Therefore, I encourage you all to participate in conversations to share and reflect on the recent past and the path forward.  We are here to support everyone as we collectively continue to pursue knowledge and understanding, and ensure the SMTD continues to be a welcoming place for all.

If you are seeking someone to share your perspective and feelings at SMTD, please feel free to contact Freyja Harris, chief diversity and inclusion officer – freyharr@umich.edu

Or Emily Laura Hyssong, embedded counselor – School of Music, Theatre & Dance, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), 2319 Moore Building, emhyss@umich.edu.

I also want to make everyone aware of some of the plans and events available on central campus taking place today (Nov. 9).

• The Office of Student Life will provide resources and referrals for support on campus to students, faculty and staff at a location in the Michigan Union’s Willis Ward Lounge. It will be open today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Our Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs is offering an open space of support to help members of our community connect during open hours today. MESA’s office is in the Michigan Union, Room 2202.

• Tomorrow, our Ginsberg Center and Counseling and Psychological Services office is facilitating a Post-election Dialogue: Impact, Perspective-taking, and Moving Forward. This event is part of the Student Life Professional Development Conference at 1-2 p.m. in the Michigan League’s Henderson Room.