Speaking Up Against Hate In the Library

Interesting day. Lots of protests and whatnot going down today.

 
 
I caught some of the conversation & demonstration during my lunch break. Very passionate opinions were expressed. I’ve been to a few of these now and I’m fascinated in them from an event planning point of view. The thought, planning, and organization that goes into these rallies is immense… especially two weeks before finals. (The message is good too.)

 
Also in the news is the “noose” down in San Diego. When I first heard this I thought it was connected to the “death of the UC” theme that was very visible around these parts last Fall.

Coincidentally we have a ‘Speak Up Against Hate’ display on the wall right now. It was planned over a month ago, but it is suddenly very timely with all that is going down regarding racism at UCSD, Irvine, and Davis. This project was a partnership with the Office of Student Affairs. They held a week of talks and activities dedicated to spreading awareness, prevention, and actions against hate crimes.

At each of their events they handed out these pledge cards:

People then pinned them to a quilt (sheet) and it was carried to all the supporting events.

Now, as the quarter comes to an end, we’ve hung the quilt along with additional pledge cards in a very high traffic area in the library. This serves as a visible reminder of the commitment that people made.

Thanks to Doug Wagoner for his interest and persistence. And to my wife for hanging the quilt while I held the ladder.