Dear students, faculty, and staff,

Sunday’s heinous attack at Pulse nightclub on the LGBT and LatinX communities reminds us all of hate’s monstrous consequences. Though the violence affects each of us in different ways, we gain strength when we reaffirm our bonds as people and share in our fundamental humanity. Thus, we join thousands of others in Orlando and throughout the nation to counter hatred with love, compassion, and unity among all people. 

On Monday, students from Pride Student Union and Islam on Campus united in solidarity to remember the lives lost. One way we plan to continue this and other expressions of love and support for survivors, families, friends, and all impacted by this tragedy is to light Century Tower with rainbow colors. The lights will go on tonight at 9 p.m. and shine each night through Friday, July 1st. We have scheduled a commemoration and unity ceremony on Tuesday, June 28th, at 8:30 p.m. at the tower for students, staff, and faculty, as they return from break and begin Summer B. During the two weeks that UF’s most iconic symbol is lit by rainbow colors, as well as afterward, I urge everyone to respond with respect, care, and love.

With warmth,

Kent

W. Kent Fuchs
President, University of Florida