January 6, 2021

Dear University of Oregon community,

I am sure I join all of you in condemning the violence taking place in Washington, D.C. and cities throughout the United States today, including our state capital in Salem. What should be a glorious day affirming our democracy has turned into a horrific spectacle. We must all join together to condemn these brazen acts of violence that threaten to destabilize our nation and the peaceful transition of power that is foundational to our democratic process.

Most disturbingly, these violent protests are throwing our nation into crisis based on hateful conspiracies about the recent national election that have been proven to be false. The truth is that this was a free and fair election, and Joe Biden was elected the next president of the United States. Responsible leaders from both parties must call for calm and take the appropriate steps to ensure that our democratic process and the outcome of this election are honored and upheld.

As we look ahead to the many challenges that our nation faces­­—including a dire battle with COVID-19 and the fight for racial equality—the University of Oregon will continue to work with elected officials, regardless of party affiliation, to solve problems, to create opportunities, and to make our nation stronger and more resilient.

As an institution, we must redouble our efforts to teach students the right way to disagree with each other and model that behavior ourselves. I believe with all of my heart that the University of Oregon’s higher education mission provides an antidote to the intolerance and hate on display today.

Please stay safe and healthy. Thank you.

Michael H. Schill
President and Professor of Law