October 29, 2020 9:00 AM

 

To: The LGS Community

 

Dear LGS Community,

 

The 2020 election is compounded by highly charged viewpoints around the devastating pandemic and the health of the public, social justice, economic upheaval, and political unrest. These factors can ignite difficult discussions in our community, within the classroom, and in other learning and professional spaces across campus.

 

The members of the LGS community are comprised of faculty, students, teaching assistants, teaching associates, and staff across many units and networks throughout the University. We are uniquely positioned to serve as leaders in uniting the campus community by doing our part to mitigate, in our conversations, the stress and anxiety fueled by the political climate. 

 

As we approach election day and post-election results, we should expect a wide range of emotions and reactions, whatever the outcome. We should anticipate and prepare for difficult and challenging conversations, discussions, and interactions. We should remain mindful in our conversations and proactively contribute to healthy and productive dialogue. 

 

The Laney Graduate School, the Center for Faculty Development and Excellence, and the Department of Political Science have collaborated to create a faculty resource guide for managing the 2020 election conversations in learning spaces. University-wide events and resources are also available to help facilitate positive pre- and post-election dialogue. Resources and events for your use are listed below in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion newsletter. LGS encourages everyone to take advantage of the various programming as we face this pivotal moment in our nation’s history.

 

If you have any questions regarding voting resources, University events, or support services, please contact LGS Chief Diversity Officer and Associate Dean of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, Dr. Amanda Marie James.

 

Thank you for standing together during these times, in expression of support and compassion for all. 

 

With you, with care and respect,

 
 

Lisa A. Tedesco, Ph.D.

Vice Provost for Academic Affairs – Graduate Studies

Dean, James T. Laney School of Graduate Studies

Professor, Rollins School of Public Health

Emory University