U.S. Capitol rioting response

An important message from President Davidson on today's U.S. Capitol riots. 

Jan. 6, 2021

Dear Roadrunners,

In November, I wrote in the Denver Post about the peaceful transition of presidential power being the cornerstone of democracy. I personally served in two presidential transitions in 2008-09 and 2016-17 in my past capacities in the Pentagon, so I know how complicated these processes are and how critical they are to the health and security of our country.

Needless to say, the violent assault on the U.S. Capitol today is not contributing to a smooth transition of power. The Constitution provides for the freedom of speech and the right to peaceful assembly, and at Metropolitan State University of Denver we actively encourage students and members of our community to exercise these rights safely and to debate respectfully.

What we’re seeing in the nation’s capital is violence that is antithetical to the values of our country and damaging to the foundation of our democracy. We should not encourage this behavior nor sit silently as elected officials and public servants are threatened with violence.

In the midst of a presidential transition – and a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic – I urge those who are angry to engage in safe, civil discourse and assembly. At MSU Denver, safety is our top priority. We stand for a respectful and inclusive environment, including peaceful and productive protests where everyone can make their voice heard.

For anyone feeling anxious about these events, we have resources to help support you. Students can receive free and confidential mental-health assistance online from the Counseling Center, while employees have access to similar resources from the Colorado State Employee Assistance Program.

In times of turmoil, we rely on our values to guide us. At MSU Denver, those are community, access, diversity, respect and excellence. During these consequential political and health crises, we need to continue to live these values and care for our those in our communities.

Sincerely,

Janine Davidson, Ph.D.

President, MSU Denver