UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa – As noted in recent messages to the University Park community, Penn State leaders disavow a speaking event planned today by Uncensored America, a recognized student group that invited to campus two individuals known for their vile rhetoric and denigration of women, minorities, LGBTQ individuals and others.
The University Park community is urged to attend either of two alternative events offered to either learn about fake news and the provocateurs who create such disinformation, or an event to come together as a community in a strong and visible statement against hate and intolerance.
“Fighting Truth Decay: How and Why Fakers Fake”
Monday, Oct. 24, 6-7 p.m.
Freeman Auditorium, HUB-Robeson Center
Monday, Oct. 24, 6-10 p.m.
Alumni and Heritage halls in the HUB-Robeson Center, hosted by the Student Programming Association.
In a recent message to students, Vice President for Student Affairs Damon Sims said: “The 'Together We Are' event in the HUB on Monday evening … will be an expression of true solidarity and an ideal way for all of us to defend ourselves and our community against the divisiveness that otherwise threatens to overwhelm our better natures.
“Those who are expert in hate groups tell us time and again that engaging them is the wrong response. Doing so merely amplifies their hate. It feeds their angry purpose.
Instead, come together as one community, in celebration of what bonds us—care and consideration for one another.”
In addition, for those who may feel personally impacted by this evening’s speaking event, the following resources are offered:
Resources and Support
FOR STUDENTS
- Gender Equity Center (confidential): 814-863-2027
- Multicultural Resource Center: Reach out to an MRC college counselor by calling 814-865-1773 or emailing MRC@psu.edu for an appointment.
- Student Care and Advocacy: 814-863-2020
- Counseling & Psychological Services: Counseling and mental health services available through CAPS, which can be reached at 814-863-0395 for University Park students, or at each Commonwealth Campus location.
- Community and Belonging Resources
FOR ALL
- The Penn State Crisis Line (877-229-6400) and the Crisis Text Line (text “LIONS” to 741741), which are open 24/7 to Penn Staters dealing with both crisis and non-crisis situations — including faculty, staff and students at all campuses. The licensed professionals with the Penn State Crisis Line can help evaluate each individual situation, offer guidance and help connect callers with further resources if appropriate.
- Penn State Hotline (anonymous reporting): 800-560-1637
- Penn State Police: 814-863-1111
- Report Bias/Harassment
FOR EMPLOYEES
- Penn State’s Employee Assistance Program, a free, confidential employee and family resource to be used as the first line of defense for personal or work-related concerns for employees and their families.