A Rally for Inclusion

Following a divisive election, several hundred members of the Lehigh community gathered at the flagpole on the University Center lawn Thursday afternoon for a peaceful silent rally to promote inclusion on campus and in the United States.

The crowd of students, faculty and staff linked arms for several minutes of silence and then walked as a group through campus and along Packer Avenue. Many participants held brightly colored signs with messages promoting community, solidarity and respect.

The walk ended at the fountain in front of the Alumni Memorial Building, where participants had an opportunity to speak. Some shared short messages such as “No place for hate” and “Love always wins.” Others expressed personal thoughts and messages of encouragement. The gathering concluded with song and a welcome to all participants to remain for conversation and comfort as needed.