The discovery of a swastika painted on the floor in the LGBTQA office has been in the hearts and on the minds of students, faculty and staff in the past week. Bias-related violence, vandalism, harassment, and intimidation profoundly affect members of targeted groups. Individuals often experience reactions including shock, fear, anxiety, sadness, and anger. These types of incidents may also cause individuals to doubt their own self-worth and/or their physical and psychological safety.
The negative impact of bias incidents is not the whole story, however. We have also witnessed amazing resilience and strength in the days following this incident. Members of the LGBTQ community and its allies have demonstrated courage, compassion, and unity in response to the presence of the swastika. We are once again reminded that growth and connection really can emerge in the face of adversity. People find their voices, experience deep compassion, learn more about themselves, find allies in unexpected places and people, and channel anger into positive action. Rather than be silenced and shamed, the LGBTQ community continues to survive and thrive.
The Counseling and Testing Center is here to provide support to LGBTQ students and other students who have been affected by this incident. We are available to talk about your thoughts and feelings, to help you cope with any negative effects, and to assist you in identifying and strengthening your internal sources of coping and resilience. Come in on drop-in or call 541-346-3227 to schedule an appointment to talk with one of our counselors. Counseling sessions are confidential and there is no cost to registered students.
Shelly Kerr
Director, Counseling and Testing Center
The discovery of a swastika painted on the floor in the LGBTQA office has been in the hearts and on the minds of students, faculty and staff in the past week. Bias-related violence, vandalism, harassment, and intimidation profoundly affect members of targeted groups. Individuals often experience reactions including shock, fear, anxiety, sadness, and anger. These types of incidents may also cause individuals to doubt their own self-worth and/or their physical and psychological safety.
The negative impact of bias incidents is not the whole story, however. We have also witnessed amazing resilience and strength in the days following this incident. Members of the LGBTQ community and its allies have demonstrated courage, compassion, and unity in response to the presence of the swastika. We are once again reminded that growth and connection really can emerge in the face of adversity. People find their voices, experience deep compassion, learn more about themselves, find allies in unexpected places and people, and channel anger into positive action. Rather than be silenced and shamed, the LGBTQ community continues to survive and thrive.
The Counseling and Testing Center is here to provide support to LGBTQ students and other students who have been affected by this incident. We are available to talk about your thoughts and feelings, to help you cope with any negative effects, and to assist you in identifying and strengthening your internal sources of coping and resilience. Come in on drop-in or call 541-346-3227 to schedule an appointment to talk with one of our counselors. Counseling sessions are confidential and there is no cost to registered students.
Shelly Kerr
Director, Counseling and Testing Center