Message from President Simmons on Mumbai Tragedy
December 3, 2008
Dear Members of the Brown Community,
Last week’s tragic events in Mumbai once again reminded us of the fragile nature of peace in these times. We offer our deepest condolences to our many alumni and friends in India; our concern for them is great and we will do all in our power to assist them in the difficult aftermath of this event. We extend our hand also to the people of India and to the families and countries of all those affected by this tragedy. At such a moment, we should do all in our power to represent the antithesis of anger, bigotry, violence and hatred.
Feelings of hostility against others can never be a lasting or complete answer to such actions. We should recommit ourselves to fostering environments where peaceful dialogue and cooperation prevail. Demonstrating concern for others on a day to day basis, participating actively and respectfully in finding solutions to problems; improving our capacity for civil, non-violent dialogue; and searching out ways of helping those in need or in anguish wherever they may be can be far more effective in responding to such hateful and destructive acts.
Above all, this is a time to be active in our efforts to strengthen the ties that bind us all together as one humanity.
Sincerely,
Ruth J. Simmons