On Tuesday July 7, after a prolonged input-gathering period, a year-long working group, and several weeks of public pressure from JMU students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other community members, the James Madison University Board of Visitors held a special meeting to approve the removal of names from three buildings that honored Confederate leaders. An accompanying press release celebrated that “The university will undertake an inclusive process to rename the three buildings.” This commitment gives hope that the administration has heard our voices and is adjusting its approach accordingly to take decisive action for justice.

Less than two weeks later, a plan has emerged to solicit a philanthropic gift for one of the buildings, to name another building for Honorary Service and Leadership (most likely named by Senior Leadership "who has the most expertise" in this area), leaving one building for the promised inclusive community naming process overseen by the History in Context Committee. That this is even up for discussion seriously undermines our confidence in the administration’s ability to create an “equitable learning and working environment where all feel welcomed and valued.” We urge the administration to reaffirm their commitment to an inclusive process for the renaming of all three buildings, and to dedicate any and ALL funds raised for three buildings being renamed to scholarships, hires, or other items that directly benefit Black Indigenous Latino/a/x and other People of Color.

Signed (names and affiliations will be listed in order submitted with updates at the end of each day):