Dear Members of the Eastman Community,
First, on behalf of the entire Eastman School committee, I want to extend sympathy to everyone impacted by yesterday’s horrific incident at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, as well as other recent tragedies that have been rooted in intolerance. We should especially keep in our thoughts the loved ones of those individuals who were senselessly killed or injured at the hands of someone so filled with hate, as well as the first responders who immediately and bravely aided those in need.
Second, let me please take this opportunity to remind everyone in our Eastman community that any expressions of bias or hatred against another individual or group because of religious beliefs are simply not acceptable. It is therefore extremely disappointing that early this morning we discovered a faintly written swastika on a piece of paper in one of our elevators. However lightly it was written, its intention is clear: to publicly disrespect the Jewish religion, members of its community, and anyone who values tolerance. Whoever committed this act should know that it is being taken very seriously and is a violation of University policy and our community standards. A report has been filed with the University’s Department of Public Safety to further investigate who might be responsible for this action.
Incidents such as this are rare and not reflective of our Eastman community, however, everyone is always encouraged to report any biased-related activities so they may be immediately investigated and addressed. Any member of the University community may submit a Bias-Related Incident Report form if they know of an incident motivated by discrimination. If anyone has information about who committed this recent act, please contact Public Safety at (585) 275-3333.
Sincerely yours,
Jamal Rossi
Jamal J. Rossi
Joan and Martin Messinger Dean
Eastman School of Music