Julie notes:
"Please do your part to head
off racism and xenophobia before they start. Work
with your student government to mobilize peer pressure
against verbal or physical abuse of any members of your
community. Violence and cruelty tend to breed more violence
and cruelty. Please, please help it stop before it
starts."
As a college administrator, I would also add that
should you come across such activity, respond
accordingly. Challenge statements, confront inappropriate
behavior where possible, and contact your campus
security/police if needed. Taking an individual stand is as
important as taking a group stand, as it puts your beliefs
into action.
I can say that my small but
multinational institutions (25% international) has been quiet
along these lines, although we did have a couple minor
incidents. For those of you at larger places, keep cool, be
well, and help out where you can.
Mark