WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – In a notice sent to the William & Mary student body, the college emphasized their commitment to community and diversity, following an incident that occurred on campus.
Vice President for Student Affairs Ginger Ambler said students reported graffiti written on a paper towel dispenser in a residence hall bathroom, that read “Go Trump” with a swastika substituting the “T” in Trump.
Students shared pictures of the graffiti on social media.
No one has come forward to claim responsibility and school officials are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact William & Mary police at 757-221-4596.
Ambler wrote that students have reported other threats and harassment, through official channels, since the election.
“Each year on the day new students move in and begin their orientation, I have the privilege of offering words of welcome to this Tribe family. The one element of those opening remarks that remains unchanged from one fall to the next is an unwavering affirmation, “Who comes here belongs here.” If ever there was a time for William & Mary to re-affirm that foundational claim in both words and actions, now is that time. Each one of you belongs here – you were specially chosen to be a part of this campus community, and you are of immeasurable worth because of the diverse experiences, perspectives, identities, traditions, affiliations, and abilities you bring with you.
What can never belong here at W&M are any behaviors that harass, intimidate, or threaten others. It grieves me to know that students in our community are witnessing or directly experiencing such behaviors, as well as the accompanying pain, confusion, and fear they engender. Since last week’s presidential election, students have shared with us, both anonymously and through more formal channels, information about such threats and harassment.”
Officials at the University of Virginia have also received reports of harassment.