Statement on Recent Events in Our Nation’s Capital

Dear Members of the CMU Community:

Last night I issued a statement in response to the disturbing events in our nation’s capital, which was posted to the university’s homepage and shared on various social media channels. I heard today from several members of our community who had not seen it, so I wanted to take a moment to repeat the sentiments I shared.

We are all saddened, shocked and deeply troubled by the events that unfolded in Washington, D.C.

I join other leaders throughout the country in denouncing this violent assault on our democracy and condemning the responsible parties for their actions. I am grateful to those who protected the Capitol and I applaud the representatives who resumed proceedings to certify the results of the presidential election.

Now more than ever, we must come together as a nation to reaffirm our faith in democracy and our commitment to a peaceful transfer of power. President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will be sworn in on January 20th, and the institutions and traditions of our great democracy will endure.

Sincerely,

Farnam Jahanian
President
Henry L. Hillman Chair