Ohio University reaffirms commitment to diversity and inclusion

Late on Saturday June 13, Ohio University leadership was made aware of anti-Semitic images painted on the graffiti wall on the Athens campus. Anti-Semitism is not tolerated on our campuses and does not reflect our strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We condemn antisemitism and all bigotry as a direct contradiction of our values.

Another individual or group exercising their own free speech rights has since repainted these portions of the graffiti wall as they are no longer visible.

Although our commitment to freedom of expression means that the University does not shield its community from speech even when it is offensive and disturbing, as in this case, as Bobcats, it is our responsibility to care for and treat each other with compassion and dignity.

Ohio University welcomes people of all backgrounds, and we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive educational environment and workplace. At OHIO, we celebrate the dignity of every individual, regardless of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, military service, or other protected status. Members of the University community may report incidents of bias to the Office of University Equity and Civil Rights Compliance (ECRC) at https://www.ohio.edu/equity-civil-rights.