TO: Campus Community
FR: Nathan Evans, Ed.D., Acting President and Jerlena Desta-Griffin, Ph.D., Chief of Staff and Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Diversity
Dear Seawolf Community,
By now you may be aware that for the second time in two years, Sonoma State’s Pride flag has been the target of those who appear to object to what it represents.
Earlier this week, the University Police Department received a report that the flagpole cord that hoists the Pride flag at the main campus entrance was severed. UPD is investigating the case as a potential hate crime and vandalism; there is no suspect information as of this writing, and the motive of the individual or individuals involved is not known.
Fortunately, the flag itself remained in place and was not damaged, and now is safely back at the HUB Cultural Center.
Sonoma State is far from alone in dealing with Pride flag-related issues. More than 40 communities across the United States reported theft or vandalism of Pride flags during Pride Month (June).
However — coming as it does just one year after SSU’s previous Pride flag was cut down and stolen — the new incident is a sobering reminder that diligence and vigilance are ongoing necessities in ensuring that members of our LGBTQI community feel a strong sense of safety and belonging in this community and in every other one.
Incidents like these must strengthen our resolve to preserve and protect the safe, diverse, and inclusive character that makes Sonoma State great.
We can and should be rightly proud of the open and accepting environment that characterizes life on campus and in our region. But we cannot become complacent about potential discrimination and hatred in our midst.
Respect. Equity. Dignity. Care. These ensure that all who study, work, live, and visit here are welcomed, valued, and heard.
IF YOU KNOW SOMETHING: Anyone with information that might assist with the investigation is urged to call Sonoma State University Police at (707) 664-4444.
SUPPORT RESOURCES: Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available for any staff and faculty seeking support. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698. Another resource is the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) which can provide supportive measures and receive complaints related to sexual misconduct, harassment, and discrimination on behalf of the university. OPHD can be reached at 707-664-4140.