Dear UMBC Community,
Tomorrow is a milestone occasion in our civic life and, no matter the outcomes, a historic event. On the eve of Election Day, we write with a reminder of our values as an inclusive community and with encouragement to seek resources for support as you need them, whether today, tomorrow, or in the days and weeks ahead.
First, VOTE! The early voting period in Maryland has now ended, but we encourage all who are eligible to and have not yet voted to show up to the polls tomorrow, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and cast your ballot. For more information, please see UMBC’s Election Central website.
It may seem obvious, but it is important for us to remember that we do not all hold the same political views. That is a very good thing. We treasure the diversity of this community, which enriches us all and shapes the educational experience that UMBC provides. Please continue to hold close our shared values of inclusive excellence, respectful discourse, and civic engagement. Doing so can take many forms today and in the coming days. Among other things, it could be students expressing viewpoints respectfully, whether in the classroom or a social setting; it could be faculty setting clear expectations for discussion and leading by example; it could mean honoring others’ wishes to not discuss politics; or it could mean giving grace to friends, classmates, colleagues, and others who are struggling.
Nationally, election-related stress has been building for months and is peaking now, and our community members are likely feeling a range of emotions. After the polls close, emotions will still be wide-ranging, perhaps for quite some time. Beyond election-related stress, it also is true that we are in what is always a busy time of the semester, when workloads are heavy and deadlines loom large. Please use and share these resources:
Resources for Care and Support
Resources for Building Support for Social Change and Constructive Dialogue for Dissenting Views
We are grateful every day for this community and for the commitment of our students, faculty, and staff to being engaged and informed global citizens. You know that your voice matters and that it is our shared responsibility to attend to our community and our democracy. Thank you for your dedication and care.
Sincerely,
President Valerie Sheares Ashby
Manfred H. M. van Dulmen
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
