Dear Members of the Bates Community,

The events of this past weekend in Charlottesville, based on hatred, bigotry, and deeply twisted notions of white supremacy, represent an assault on values fundamental to our nation and our democracy. The violence that inevitably results from such misguided motivations tears apart lives and threatens communities.

My heart goes out to those who experienced the horrifying events in Charlottesville directly, and I urge us all to stand in solidarity with the vast majority of people in this country and beyond who, in word and deed, make clear that hatred and bigotry have no place in their own lives or society at large.

Bates was founded on the principle that education is meant to develop the full potential of every human being, and it is strongest when carried out in a community that treats all persons as equal and worthy.

As we look ahead to the new academic year, we must strive more consciously than ever to engage with our campus community and the wider world with full commitment to the values that ground us and bind us together.

I look forward to welcoming all of you back to campus over the next several weeks. We have important work to do.

Sincerely,

Clayton Spencer