A message reaffirming OHIO's values as an inclusive community

Ohio University President M. Duane Nellis and Vice President for Student Affairs and Interim Chief Diversity Officer Jason Pina shared the following message with the campus community on Nov. 17, 2017.

Dear Bobcat Community,

Last night, Ohio University Police Department (OUPD) was called to assist a student who reported a physical assault and verbal attack by individuals using a homophobic slur. We want to reassert OHIO’s fundamental culture of respect that must prevail and to make it clear that we condemn all forms of bias-motivated violence. We are disheartened that members of our society continue to feel that any sexual orientation other than heterosexual is an insult.

Ohio University is committed to confronting homophobia, bi-phobia and transphobia. This is an opportunity to reaffirm our belief that all people deserve to live free from fear, violence, and discrimination, regardless of who they are or whom they love.

Ohio University welcomes people of all backgrounds, and we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive educational environment and workplace. At OHIO, we celebrate the dignity of every individual, regardless of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, military service, or other protected status.

We ask that anyone with information about this incident contact OUPD.

Sincerely,