This email was sent to the CalArts community from President Ravi Rajan in reponse to the breach of the U.S. Capitol today, Jan. 6, 2021, during the Electoral College vote count.
Fellow CalArtians -- this democracy will not be broken.
I reach out today to hold you up, and to ask each of you to also hold someone else up.
The U.S. Capitol was breached by a violent mass of people earlier today. Before our eyes the principles of liberty and freedom that provide the foundation of this country are being tested. I know that many of you, like me, are upset and in shock. These events are deeply disturbing. They are painful to watch.
Let us wish safety to all those who are working hard in this moment to uphold the values of our democracy. And peace to all the rest of us -- peace that comes from our confidence knowing that this moment too shall pass, and the fabric of this republic will continue without fissure.
We need only to look to hours before, when democracy was peacefully and efficiently carried out in the State of Georgia for a set of runoff elections in the midst of the most dangerous part of a global pandemic. Lines were shorter. People were safe. And by all indication, all people of the state worked together, regardless of political persuasion, to create a fair, free, and efficient process.
Given this moment, you may be having trouble focusing on your work. This is, without question understandable. Please do take time to step away from your work and reach out and support your coworkers, friends, family. Please also do this safely, and socially distanced.
As a reminder, the following resources are available for students, faculty and staff. Students may access support through Protocall - 24/7 Counseling line at 855-364-7981 and find a form for counseling resources online. Faculty and staff can access counseling services through the CalArts Employee Assistance Program (EAP) serviced by Anthem Blue Cross EAP. You may call them at 800-999-7222. (Our program name: CIA.)
The eyes of history will not look kindly upon those who disregard the principles of our democracy. Despite today’s events, this country will move forward. There are too many of us who believe in this democracy -- and we know that better days are coming.
Be safe and be well,
Ravi