Letter: Prejudice, threats have no place in our society

A well-known quote states, “Hate anywhere is a threat to peace everywhere.”

Few of us are so naive as to believe that racism doesn’t exist. UW-River Falls and most segments of society are working diligently to eradicate its ugly vestiges.

Recently, graffiti was found in a university bathroom, threatening violence to students of color.

Our campus and community embrace a “climate of inclusiveness,” but, sadly, there will always be the odd, disturbed individual whose ignorance is so deep that they use cowardly graffiti to vent their frustration and unhappiness.

Acceptance of one another can be slow. The “isms” that plague us are tougher than viruses to eradicate, because they, too, are as old as humankind. Education and awareness is the first stage of treatment for this societal malady.

There is more that each of us can do to affect the cure. If any of you or your children ever feel unsafe, let someone know.

Speak up when you see, hear or experience discrimination. Set limits and educate when you hear others voicing hatred and ignorance.

Bias has no place in River Falls, or at an institution of higher learning. UW-RF will never condone prejudice or threats of violence.

Those who do will learn that there are far more people who clearly see the future: A world where differences are valued and utilized as assets to move our nation forward.

Tags: letters to editor, uw river falls, opinion, racism