NEW PALTZ – On Veterans Day hundreds of students and faculty on the SUNY New Paltz campus that has almost 8,000 students, gathered in front of the Humanities building to bring awareness to the post-election hate speech they say is being promulgated by Trump supporters.
SUNY New Paltz was one of scores or protests nationwide. The protests elsewhere continue but in smaller numbers.
Citing hate messages found in a dorm bathroom that included “Isis
is calling! Muslims can leave!” students, faculty and staff
are speaking out against the intolerance that many have witnessed first-hand.
Student Association President Yurani Reynoso said the rally is
not about Trump becoming president.
This is about what people have done as a result of his hate speech and they are feeling empowered after he won the election.”
Adjunct professor Dr. Robyn Sheridan agreed saying that “Trump is a representation of a bigger problem.”
Graffiti sample
The bathroom graffiti is under investigation by campus police.
In an email to SUNY New Paltz faculty, staff, and students, University President Donald Christian stated “we condemn hate speech and bias acts in our community and recognize that anytime they occur they harm the entire community. We will bring to bear all appropriate processes on any report of bias and encourage students to seek support through our Psychological Counseling Center.”
Dr. Christian was unavailable for comment during the rally.
