Outrage at the University of Washington flared as students marched against anti-Muslim sentiment, in the wake of a racist letter aimed at a student group. With chants and banners, dozens joined the fray, voicing their discontent and demanding the respect and security they argue is overdue on their campus.
As reported by FOX 13 Seattle, the march was triggered by a hateful message sent to the UW Somali Student Association. With vitriol targeting their ethnicity and religion, protestors claim the letter is a symptom of a larger issue of Islamophobia on campus that the university has been lethargic to tackle.
"Seeing hate towards Muslims, especially in a heightened time of other Muslims suffering in other countries like Palestine, it’s kind of heartbreaking to see," one student expressed, opting for anonymity while talking to FOX 13 Seattle to protect her safety. This sentiment during the time of increased tension showcases the complex layers of fear and pain echoing around the world, ultimately landing on the UW campus steps.
Marching students highlighted a pattern of discrimination. One claimed, feeling exposed and expecting support from the university after a sinister letter commanding the UW Somali Student Association members "to go back to whatever s--thole you came from," stained the campus. "We do not need Muslims, antisemites, terrorists, or communists here at UW," the anonymous hate mail further stated, casting a pall over the institution reputed for higher learning and inclusion.
A demonstrator underscored the prevailing concerns, stating, "The fact that we have to hold protests like this, to bring awareness, is indicative of how much the university is doing. I think we need to push them a little more to make sure they know that we’re not feeling as supported as we should," during a speech. The resistance, the students say, must pave the way for palpable change, demanding that the University of Washington not only listen but act decisively against the virulence that has seeped into their educational sanctum, as reported by FOX 13 Seattle.
