Graffiti

December 13, 2024

Dear all,

This morning, we awoke to multiple instances of graffiti on campus. The content of some of the graffiti is experienced as antisemitic by members of our community. This mode of communication is not effective in fostering the community of dialogue and respect to which we aspire. Instead, it can make people feel intimidated, unsafe, and excluded. To all the members of our community who feel harmed, please know your safety is a top priority, and we are committed to supporting you.

Given the extent of the graffiti and damage to College property, a formal investigation that includes the local police department will ensue. Anyone who may have information about what might have taken place, please contact Campus Safety Officer Investigator Chorba at JChorba@vassar.edu or (845) 437-7523.

I want to underscore that this is no way to communicate, and it hurts our community. I am thankful to the facilities team, who will remove the graffiti as quickly as possible, as well as to the many people who will work to heal our community after this occurrence.

Members of the community who experience social identity harm (i.e., when one feels that their identity is being devalued or negatively stereotyped) may choose to work with a Social Identity Harm Advocate, or by contacting the Campus Response Center (CRC) at (845) 437-5221. I again also want to draw your attention to the College’s statement condemning all forms of discriminatory harassment.

Let us take care of each other. You may reach out to me or Dean Alamo directly if you have questions or need support, or use any of the Dean of the College resources.

Elizabeth H. Bradley, President
Vassar College
Poughkeepsie, NY 12604
@EHBVassar