Dear Elliott School Community,
On behalf of the faculty and staff at the Elliott School, we join President LeBlanc in condemning the senseless acts of violence and chaos that we witnessed at the Capitol building on Wednesday, just a short distance from our campus.
President LeBlanc reminded us of our role as an institution of higher learning that debate and disagreement should result in civil discourse that leads to change, not to violence and insurrection. Elliott School students are some of the most civically engaged students with as strong a sense of social justice as I have ever met.
I echo President’s LeBlanc’s words that if you feel angry about the ongoing threats to our democratic institutions, channel your passion towards making a positive difference in the world. In the words of a fellow anthropologist, Margaret Mead, “never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Please choose to remain optimistic and focused on what you can do to effect the change in the world you wish to see.
My best wishes for a safe, healthy and happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Ilana Feldman,
Interim Dean, Elliott School of International Affairs