Student Goes on Hunger Strike to Fix ‘Infected’ Campus

Concerned Student 1950, whose members all call for anonymity to promote solidarity and equality within their group, held a press conference/rally Wednesday at the newly constructed Traditions Plaza to air their grievances with the university, as well as call for a boycott of all MU campus dining facilities, retailers, and other money-making outlets.

“Racism does exist at our university and it is unacceptable”, said Wolfe in a statement.

Cohen said he hopes that the English department will set a precedent for other departments to make statements of their own.

Graduate student and campus activist Jonathan Butler began the hunger strike Monday, The Columbia Daily Tribune reported.

The vote came as students were protesting and calling for Wolfe to be removed from office. Along with his involvement in Concerned Student 1950, he has participated in several Racism Lives Here and MU Graduate Rights demonstrations.

“(Butler’s) voice for social justice is important and powerful”, Wolfe said. “I am sorry this is the case”.

Butler previously led a group of black students in forming a human chain to block president Wolfe’s auto at the university’s homecoming parade in October, as part of the students stated goal of new “inclusive policies” at the university, “as well as an overall shift toward a safer and more inclusive campus environment”. Nonetheless, had I gotten out of the auto to acknowledge the students and talk with them perhaps we wouldn’t be where we are today. John Fougere, Chief Communications Officer for the UM System said that they received the letter, but had no further comment at this time.

“The only way we can begin to address the systemic and pervasive issue of racism in society and the effects it has on our campuses is to engage in dialogue, to build deeper relationships and have frank conversations”, Wolfe said. Together we must rise to the challenge of combating racism, injustice, and intolerance.