This message is being sent to all Duke students:
Dear students,
Yesterday, multiple Duke community members reported concerns about a phrase associated with an erasure of people and antisemitism that was painted on the trestle bridge on Campus Drive, commonly called the free expression bridge.
Because the phrase, “from the river to the sea….” is understood by many in our community and beyond as a call for violence targeting the Jewish community, the specific phrase was painted over. At the same time, we are taking care to not alter other sentiments elsewhere on the bridge; these include images and words that advocate for Palestinian rights and call for Palestinian freedom.
In the face of wrenching conflict and war, a university serves a crucial role as an educational community that fosters civil discourse, critical inquiry, and openness for all viewpoints and positions. The recent war has already resulted in thousands of innocent lives lost. Many in our community are profoundly affected. Duke does not condone violence or threats of violence directed toward any members of our global community or within our family here on campus.
Student Affairs strives to continuously uphold our values of respect and inclusion. Thank you for your continued thoughtful engagement with your fellow students. You will find a reminder about campus resources below.
With care,
Mary Pat McMahon
Vice Provost & Vice President for Student Affairs
