Dear Hawkeyes,

We know that the coming election day has mobilized Hawkeyes across the political spectrum and we are excited to see so many students engaged in voting, political action, and activism. To support campus engagement in advocacy, perspective-taking, and leading change, the divisions of Student Life and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion have connected with colleagues across campus to promote an array of programming through the Mindful and Engaged Hawkeyes initiative. A variety of lectures, discussions, social action activities, mindfulness sessions, deliberative dialogues encourage you to engage in advocacy, be active in your communities, learn from others' perspectives, and be inspired to lead change.

We'd also like to take this opportunity to remind you that the Campus Inclusion Team (CIT) provides support and resources to any student with a concern about diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of Iowa. This may include experiences you have had or witnessed related to different aspects of identity such as race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, and associational preferences. The CIT response staff will listen to your concerns and help identify potential solutions. You can find out more on the CIT website or in this video. 

We hope that you will take advantage of the rich opportunities for civic engagement and civil discourse this fall. While the current political climate may be divisive, we are committed to maintaining an environment that recognizes the inherent worth and dignity of every person and that fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding and mutual respect. As Hawkeyes, we value vigorous discourse and debate without dehumanization. We have more in common than that which may divide us.

Sarah Hansen
Vice president for student life

Elizabeth Tovar
Interim associate vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion