University of Missouri chancellor condemns racism ahead of Faculty Council statement
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
University of Missouri Chancellor Mun Choi condemned racism and discrimination in a statement released Thursday ahead of a meeting where the MU Faculty Council is expected to discuss its own statement.
A link to the letter was posted on the MU Twitter account a little before noon.
"Over the past week, I have heard from members of our community regarding campus culture and safety," Choi wrote without mentioning any specifics. "I would like to reiterate that I strongly condemn all forms of racism and discrimination. The safety of our community is of paramount importance.
"I stand with Faculty Council’s call in their forthcoming statement to denounce acts of intolerance on campus. I applaud our faculty, students and staff who are reaching out to others, and I hope each of you will join our faculty and staff councils on Nov. 14 to celebrate World Kindness Day."
In a letter to campus, President Choi reiterates that he strongly condemns all forms of racism and discrimination. ➡️ https://t.co/J8V2PFFMNZ pic.twitter.com/fvJ3KYU2bP
— Mizzou (@Mizzou) November 10, 2022
Choi urged anyone experiencing racism or discrimination to report such incidents.
The Faculty Council's agenda for its Thursday meeting includes a statement on discrimination. The draft statement, which hadn't been seen by all council members Thursday morning, notes the discovery of flyers posted on campus Oct. 24, calling their message one of "white supremacy."
The flyers included images of white children and one included the words "we must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children," in addition to other statements.
"The statements on these fliers cannot be interpreted literally; rather, their meaning is created by the social and cultural backdrop," the statement reads. "In the context of anti-racist movements, 'it’s okay to be White' and 'White lives matter' incorrectly convey that White identities are marginalized or oppressed, and are demanding inclusion and diversity."
An MU spokesman said the university's hands are tied because the flyers don't use directly deride any other races with slurs and are protected by free speech.
Check back for updates to this developing story.
