Over the last several years, many of us have included in our email signature a statement like, "I stand in solidarity with…" Some of us completed the sentences differently. Whether we indicated support for a racial or ethnic population, or simply stated that we opposed injustice both here and elsewhere, the variety of messages is a testament to the diversity that our school is privileged to experience.
Over the last several weeks, the number of news stories about hate and oppression—on our campus, in our country, and abroad—can seem overwhelming. In the face of such horrific news, it is tempting to feel powerless against what can often only be described as evil. Yet, perhaps we can find purpose and courage in solidarity. Let us ponder what "solidarity" means.
"Solidarity" is commonly defined as "Unity or agreement of feeling or action." Consider the latter part of that definition: action. Solidarity is not only a feeling; it is also a behavior. So when we say we "stand in solidarity," we affirm that we are willing to act in support of others.
What does solidarity look like in practice? It can range from local to global, from small to large, from standing beside one individual in need to standing up for entire populations. Perhaps it means striking up a conversation with someone whose family is affected by recent events in Ukraine or elsewhere. Perhaps it means listening with an open mind to someone expressing their disagreement. Perhaps it means posting a mezuzah on your door, or reminding students about their rights and resources. Perhaps it means making a donation to the Queer Philanthropy Circle or Black Philanthropy Circle right here at IU, or nationally to the Trevor Project, the Anti-Defamation League, Amnesty International, the American Civil Liberties Union, SACNAS, or the International Rescue Committee.
Whatever action we take, when we say we stand in solidarity, we must mean solidarity for everyone. This means people in Ukraine; our students, faculty, and staff from Ukraine; our Asian, Jewish, African American, Hispanic/Latinx, students, faculty, and staff; our sexual and gender minority and differentially abled students, faculty, and staff; and indeed every other group.
How do we stand in solidarity? In any way we can. Above all, let it not be silence and ignorance. When do we do this? Now. For whom do we do this? For all of us.
Stand.
In solidarity,
David B. Allison, Ph.D.
Dean
