Affirming our university’s values

Earlier this week, we made the necessary decision to relocate the Pledges of Allegiance public art exhibit from the area in front of The Commons at Spooner Hall to the Spencer Museum of Art due to safety concerns, which allows programming to continue these important conversations. This work of art has elicited strong reactions and calls for its removal.

We are writing to reaffirm our full commitment to ensuring the exhibit remains in the Spencer Museum through its scheduled run.

The University of Kansas prides itself on being a marketplace of ideas that supports engaged and inclusive dialogue with our communities. As university leaders – one of whom is a Navy veteran – we understand the point of view of those who may disagree with the content of this kind of speech. At KU, we strongly affirm the right to express it.

Respectfully,

Douglas A. Girod
Chancellor

Carl W. Lejuez
Interim Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor