The War in Iraq

March 24, 2003

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

As Tufts returns from spring break, we find our nation at war. The conflict in Iraq inspires passions at Tufts, in the US, and throughout the world. Many are deeply disturbed by the events and policies that have led to this conflict. Others believe that the war is just and that US intervention is justified.

While we may harbor differing views, our forms of expression in the days ahead must foster an environment that encourages mutual learning and understanding. In such emotionally charged times, reason and respect are often the first casualties. Eventually this war will end -- quickly as I am sure we all hope. When it does, our sense of community is likely to reflect how we have treated each other during these difficult times. I urge every citizen of Tufts to show civility and respect for others and to maintain our tradition of being a welcoming and supportive community for all. I encourage people to express their views but also to listen and learn from others.

There are already many scheduled activities on our campus that provide opportunities for expression, reflection, and contemplation. Our chaplains and our counseling staff are available to the community. The chaplains have organized a prayer vigil in Goddard Chapel on Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to pray for all of those who are affected by the conflict. I hope our faculty will look for the teachable moment where they can use their expertise to help our students place the events of the day in context. One such opportunity to learn will occur this coming Thursday. Dean Stephen Bosworth of the Fletcher School will chair a panel discussion with faculty from a number of our schools to consider the consequences of the war. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, at Asean Auditorium in the Cabot Intercultural Center.

As the war unfolds we should not lose sight of the fact that a number of Tufts alumni are serving in the armed forces. Some of our employees are reservists and have been called up for active duty. Similarly, a number of the sons and daughters of members of our community are either serving in the military or are likely to be activated in the near future. I hope everyone will remember these individuals in the days ahead as we pray for their safe return.

Sincerely,
Lawrence S. Bacow
President

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	v 2003 Memos > School of Veterinary Medicine > The 2003 Issam M. Fares Lecture > The War in Iraq > Supreme Court Rulings > Hancock Announcement > New Dean of Tufts' School of Medicine > President's Marathon Challenge > December Holiday Announcement	Home » Community Memos » 2003 Memos » The War in Iraq The War in Iraq March 24, 2003 Dear Students, Faculty and Staff: As Tufts returns from spring break, we find our nation at war. The conflict in Iraq inspires passions at Tufts, in the US, and throughout the world. Many are deeply disturbed by the events and policies that have led to this conflict. Others believe that the war is just and that US intervention is justified. While we may harbor differing views, our forms of expression in the days ahead must foster an environment that encourages mutual learning and understanding. In such emotionally charged times, reason and respect are often the first casualties. Eventually this war will end -- quickly as I am sure we all hope. When it does, our sense of community is likely to reflect how we have treated each other during these difficult times. I urge every citizen of Tufts to show civility and respect for others and to maintain our tradition of being a welcoming and supportive community for all. I encourage people to express their views but also to listen and learn from others. There are already many scheduled activities on our campus that provide opportunities for expression, reflection, and contemplation. Our chaplains and our counseling staff are available to the community. The chaplains have organized a prayer vigil in Goddard Chapel on Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to pray for all of those who are affected by the conflict. I hope our faculty will look for the teachable moment where they can use their expertise to help our students place the events of the day in context. One such opportunity to learn will occur this coming Thursday. Dean Stephen Bosworth of the Fletcher School will chair a panel discussion with faculty from a number of our schools to consider the consequences of the war. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, at Asean Auditorium in the Cabot Intercultural Center. As the war unfolds we should not lose sight of the fact that a number of Tufts alumni are serving in the armed forces. Some of our employees are reservists and have been called up for active duty. Similarly, a number of the sons and daughters of members of our community are either serving in the military or are likely to be activated in the near future. I hope everyone will remember these individuals in the days ahead as we pray for their safe return. Sincerely, Lawrence S. Bacow President
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