Statement on the Storming of the U.S. Capitol

Dear Members of the Drexel Community,

The violent storming today by a group of rioters of the very seat of our democracy, the United States Capitol, was one of the most deeply disturbing displays of civil unrest many of us have ever seen. It is all the more disheartening in that it stemmed from an effort to disrupt the formal certification of legitimate votes for the next president by millions of Americans.

Peaceful gathering is a constitutional right and one that must be protected. But the events of this day in Washington stand as an affront to our democratic institutions and the orderly transfer of power, which have made this country the envy of all nations.

As a country, we have very difficult work ahead and a long road to travel, but we are stronger than the divisive hate and destructive partisanship that was displayed today. My firm conviction is that the United States will move beyond the current events to find ways to peacefully resolve differences and work together for the common good.

Sincerely,
John Fry
President