To the Williams Community,
We’re sad and angered to report that this morning a student noticed the word “fag” marked into the outside of his room door in Brooks House. It looks as if it might have been done with a fingernail.
It’s not known how long ago this took place. Another Brooks resident says that she saw it about a week ago, but, since it looked to be old, hadn’t reported it.
The college immediately notified the Williamstown Police Department, which has visited and photographed the scene, and is proceeding with an investigation. The Dean’s Office and Campus Safety and Security are also investigating, in order to identify and hold accountable whoever is responsible.
Anyone with knowledge that might help this process can contact Williamstown Police at 458-5646 or CSS at 597-4444 or through the anonymous tip site.
This kind of behavior is contrary to everything that we at Williams stand for. Actions that target individuals and groups are not only appalling in and of themselves, they have a corrosive effect on our entire community. And now, in particular, we stand firmly in solidarity with the students, faculty, and staff who’ve worked to organize Queer Pride Month activities on campus to the benefit of us all.
Support for students affected by this is available through the Dean’s Office, Multicultural Center, and Counseling Services. Deans and counselors on call can be reached through CSS at 597-4444 at any time.
We’re in conversation with members of the QSU Steering Committee and other student leaders on ways for us as a community to respond. All who wish to gather for support and a first conversation about community response are welcome tonight at 8 p.m. in Hardy House living room.
Sincerely,
Adam Falk
President
Sarah Bolton
Dean of the College
Mike Reed
V.P. for Strategic Planning and Institutional Diversity
Steve Klass
V.P. for Campus Life