Response to the Orlando Tragedy

June 13, 2016

​To the Smith community:

This evening at 7 p.m. we will gather in front of Wright Hall, with the School for Social Work, to honor and remember those killed and injured in the Orlando massacre. We will lower the flag on College Hall in solidarity with President Obama’s proclamation to do so “as a mark of respect for the victims of the act of hatred and terror” in Orlando, and in memory of all of the victims of this tragedy, including Kim “KJ” Morris, who worked in our Campus Center from 2004 to 2007. In addition to this evening’s gathering Dean of Religious Life Jennifer Walters and chapel staff are available in the Helen Hills Hills Chapel throughout the day.

In the face of acts of hate and violence, we struggle as a community and as individuals. I have found comfort in the bravery of those who immediately helped others injured in the attack, in the compassion of those who lined the streets around the Pulse nightclub to donate blood, and in the simple yet powerful words of the artist Lin-Manuel Miranda who reminded us that “Love is love is love is love is love....” As we mourn and honor the victims of this tragedy I hope that we all are able to take strength from this community.

Sincerely,

Kathleen McCartney
President