To the Editor:
These are extraordinary times. I am ashamed to say that the president of my beloved alma mater chose not to sign the AACU letter. It is not hyperbole to say our entire way of life is in peril. They are at war with us and the only way we can avoid defeat is to band together and set aside minor disagreements. The challenge is greater now as we try to fight the internal threat of authoritarianism. This is not partisan politics as usual. Our Constitution risks being shredded and our democracy may not hold.
As it’s been said, Dartmouth is a small college, and while we may be among those who love it, Dartmouth cannot afford to stand alone at this dire time. We need courageous leadership like that shown by Wesleyan President Michael Roth, who chose to write a powerful op-ed in the New York Times about the threats we face, not only as educators and citizens but as Jews. I was heartened to see Roth’s name on the AACU letter. Your arguments for not signing are unpersuasive.
Self-reflection should be ongoing for institutions and individuals, but it does not preclude speaking out and acting. There may be times when restraint is a virtue but now is not one of those times. President Beilock, it is not too late for you to change course.
Sincerely,
Jessica
Jessica Rosenberg Brown D’83 P’15
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Jessica Rosenberg Brown is a member of the Class of 1983 and is a parent of a member of the 2015. Letters to the Editor represent the views of their author(s), which are not necessarily those of The Dartmouth.
