Pacific Index

Dr. Daniel Eisen and Pierre Morton meet with the Student Senate to give guidance to students in light of racism on-campus

In the past month, threatening posts and conversation threads on the social media app Yik Yak, revealed deep-seated concerns about the climate on campus, urging students to reflect on the impact of words and actions of themselves and others alike.

In response, earlier this month, a Student Senate meeting on October 3 addressed these troubling events. Executive Director Daniel Eisen of the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) and vice president of EDIA, Pierre Morton, expressed a commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment at this meeting. They acknowledged that hate speech and racial slurs affect not only the targeted individuals, but also the wider community, creating an atmosphere of fear and division.

One participant emphasized the need for open dialogues about the harmful effects of such language. “When slurs are thrown around, it doesn’t just hurt those directly targeted; it creates an environment where everyone feels less safe and valued,” they noted. The emotional toll on students of color and students differently abled, in particular, was a recurring theme, highlighting how these experiences can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety.

The discussion also underscored the importance of allyship and the role of the entire student body in creating a supportive community. “We’re all responsible for each other’s ability to learn,” Morton stated, stressing that combatting racism requires collective effort. Students were encouraged to speak out against harmful language and support one another, emphasizing that silence can perpetuate the cycle of hate.

Bystander intervention was another critical topic, with participants discussing the challenges and responsibilities that come with witnessing such behavior. Many acknowledged that standing up to racism can be daunting, particularly when it involves confronting peers. However, there was a shared belief that fostering a culture of accountability and empathy is essential for healing and growth.

The impact of racism extends beyond immediate encounters; it influences mental health and community dynamics. Several attendees shared personal stories of how they felt when witnessing or experiencing hate speech, revealing a shared sense of trauma and a desire for change. “These words threaten our humanity,” one student remarked, pointing out the need for a community that not only condemns hate, but actively promotes understanding and respect.

Moving forward university leaders call for solidarity among diverse student groups and encourage attendance at cultural events and gatherings. Engaging with different communities is seen as a vital step in building relationships and breaking down barriers. “Showing up for one another is the biggest way to build those connections,” Morton affirmed.

As Pacific University confronts these issues, there is a collective determination to reshape the campus culture. The commitment to nurturing a safe and equitable environment for all students remains paramount. “It starts here, with each of us taking responsibility for our words and actions,” Morton concluded, reminding everyone that true change requires a united effort. “Let us do the not fun work, and you all do the forward thinking that we can build on.”