Statements on hateful incidents at Colorado State University

In 2017 and 2018, a series of hateful incidents occurred at Colorado State University (CSU). They ranged from a fake noose and anti-Semitic symbols found in dorms to a racist incident targeting a Middle Eastern student on local public transportation. In each case, CSU President Tony Frank responded with campus-wide emails telling the community what occurred and offering support to those directly targeted. One of the emails invited students to attend a “solidarity walk and community gathering” to counteract hate. The event, called “CSUnite: No Place for Hate,” was attended by more than 2,500 people.

“Our Colorado State community stands firmly against anyone who seeks to intimidate, incite violence and deprive others of their Constitutional rights. We hold up our Principles of Community in counter to anyone who seeks to divide and terrorize. And while we cannot shield anyone from words or ideas that may be damaging and destructive, we will stand with those targeted so that no one on this campus will stand alone. And we will respond with utmost seriousness when there are threats to the safety of anyone on our campus.”

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• Does not shy away from forceful condemnation of hateful expression.
• Acknowledges the detrimental impact of hateful incidents on targeted members of the community.
• Provides contact information for various support offices at the university.