November 13, 2015

Dear students at Mizzou,

We are joining countless others in expressing our support for you as you continue to
demonstrate exemplary leadership and bravery in the face of intolerance. Your activism has
inspired us to reflect on what we as a Student Government Association can do to better
foster a welcoming and safe environment for everyone here at the University of Maryland,
regardless of race, age, culture, ability, ethnicity or nationality, gender identity or expression,
sexual orientation, marital status, religious affiliation, or socioeconomic status.
Just this week, in a community with virtually no statues, a towering one of Frederick
Douglass was erected in the center of campus. Surrounding the statue are quotes from the
prolific abolitionists work, such as this particular one which we feel is fitting:
The thing worse than rebellion is the thing that causes rebellion.
We offer our support in your efforts to ensure that the next President of the University of
Missouri is one with a vested interest in effectively addressing these critical and complex
concerns. We cannot stress enough how important it is for student input to be incorporated
in the hiring process, in which transparency should also be a top priority.
We know that your courageous activism and leadership stems not from isolated incidents,
but from the systemic issue of racism that affects college campuses and communities across
our great Nation. We also know that progress will not be easy, but that it will be worth it.
We stand with you, Mizzou, and all campuses fighting against oppression.
In Solidarity,
The University of Maryland Student Government Association Executive Board
Patrick Ronk
Student Body President

Shabnam Ahmed
Vice President of Academic Affairs

Katherine Swanson
Vice President of Student Affairs

Sarah Niezelski
Vice President of Financial Affairs

Aiden Galloway
Speaker of the Legislature