Last night, the walls below the Class of 1959 bridge were vandalized with political statements.
“This morning, we discovered graffiti defacing the Class of 1959 Bridge,” said President John Broadmeadow in an email sent to the Norwich University campus. “My initial feelings are of profound disappointment; not only because someone decided to hide behind the anonymous destruction of university property, but because this act attacks foundational principles embedded in our mission statement.”
The walls read, “MAGA = NEW FASCIST PARTY”, “ENLISTEE SERVE FASCISM”, “DE-ENLIST TODAY”, “END WHITE SUPREMACY”, “SUPPORT HUMANS”, and “TRUTH IS ON THE SIDE OF THE OPPRESSED” – the last quote coming from a 1964 speech by famous civil rights leader Malcolm X at the founding rally for the Organization of the Afro-American Unity (OAAU) in Harlem, NY.
“Historically, graffiti has been the pen (or spray can) of young people who feel threatened, marginalized, or forgotten,” said in an email interview by Dr. Rowland Brucken, Professor of History at Norwich University. “It is a cry of conscience, which can also be seen as misdirected, disrespectful, and destructive.”
According to Brucken, graffiti has played a significant role during various social and political movements, including the anti-Vietnam War protests, the Hip Hop Generation’s response to Reagan-era racism, and, more recently, the widespread anxiety surrounding the white supremacist MAGA movement.
“…we do not want to comment on the political statement; rather, we want our students and community to not only critically think about the message but also the way it was presented,” said Provost Karen Gaines in an email to The Guidon.
At this time, It is unclear whether the individual or individuals are part of the Norwich community. University administrators are asking for help from students to identify the culprit or culprits.
“Unfortunately, there is no camera at the bridge or overflow footage from the commuter lot,” said Colonel Passalacqua in an email sent out to Commanders and Command Sergeant Majors. “A long shot, please ask your chain of command if anyone saw any black paint washed off in a residence hall or barracks sink.”
According to Passalacqua’s email, Norwich University Faculty Operations has contacted an outside contractor to help with graffiti removal. As for now, tarps have been placed over the vandalized walls.
Norwich University Policies & Regulations outline that any class 1 offense, including damaging university property or vandalism can result in consequences up to dismissal or suspension. Class 1 offenses are evaluated based on their severity and may be addressed by a commanding officer, a corps review board, or an administrative discipline hearing.
“We urge you to participate in constructive dialogue, not destroy property,” said Broadmeadow. “We want to empower you to courageously state your convictions and not hide behind anonymity. And we ask all of us to tolerate the opinions of others and not inflame passions.”
