On Thursday, February 2, 2017, faculty, students, staff and friends were invited to participate in a March for Global Unity at Chestnut Hill College.
Prior to the march, Ms. Trachanda Garcia, M.L.A. Director of Global Education, addressed all those assembled in the Rotunda. “Today at the college we annually welcome global ESL and academic students, staff and faculty from 40 countries into our inclusive Catholic Community as our
dear neighbor
. Visitors to our campus experience the
dear neighbor love
as a warm welcome, smiling faces, friendly hugs and handshakes, the willingness to continually go above and beyond, the ability to listen and empathize and the respect that our students, staff and faculty members display for one another. During this time of uncertainty, in light of the recent executive order coming from the new administration, I implore you to remember that our
dear neighbors
are not just those you pass in the hall, live next to or sit by you in a class or a meeting. Our neighbors also include those whom we have never met, close and extended families, our enemies as well as our friends and those who have different passports, religions, gender, skin tones, social class or political views from our own. As a college, we develop better and stronger relationships when we share the talent, culture and expertise that our international community imparts on us.”
The group then marched from the Rotunda, through the front circle, along Northwestern Avenue, down Germantown Avenue and into the main entrance of the College. Gathering at the
Peace Pole
on the lower front lawn,
Sister Carol
Jean Vale SSJ
, President of Chestnut Hill College led a prayer.
We are Brothers and Sisters
Don’t look at me
As though I am an alien or a stranger,
Don’t let the dagger of antipathy
Fly out of your eyes.
I am your
neighbor.
Don’t call me a foe, an antagonist or a rival,
Don’t roll up your mistrustful sleeves for a fight.
I am your
friend.
Don’t hold this murderous weapon in your kind hand,
Don’t deny me the right to work, to eat, or to live.
I am your
brother
, your
sister.
