On August 24th, all Central Washington University staff, students, and faculty (including those online and at the satellite locations) were informed that they are required to provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 by October 18th or risk being terminated. This is in accordance with Gov. Jay Inslee's arbitrary, overreaching, and arguably illegal proclamation.

Although COVID-19 poses extreme risks to certain portions of the population, namely those elderly in age and who have multiple comorbidities, it poses almost no risk of death to a vast majority of the CWU population. The solution of coercing and compelling a large population to inject a novel vaccine for a novel virus goes against basic human rights, violates the freedom to choose, and jeopardizes the education and employment of many.

In his welcoming address to the University, President Wohlpart stated, "[The] process of listening, learning, and reflecting will continue in the coming months so that we can work together to develop a long range, comprehensive, and strategic plan for our institution built on an aspirational vision and mission." We call attention to this statement so it may be recognized that many diverse voices have gone unheard and that "together" may not be inclusive of all people.

This novel vaccine has had negative impacts on many that have already received it. There is no guarantee that there will not be long term, detrimental effects on those that receive the vaccine, especially those who are already at lower risk of death and those who have natural immunity from previously contracting the virus. This is not an argument against vaccines in general or the COVID-19 vaccine, just the mandate.

The goal of this petition is to reverse the decision of mandating the novel COVID-19 vaccines and/or reinstate the philosophical/personal exemption of the vaccination mandate. This will ensure that CWU does not see vital staff and faculty assets, as well as student enrollment, reach catastrophic and unsustainable levels.

We continuously heed the calls of the Wildcat community to stay focused on elevating student engagement and student success. We now implore the administration to empathize with our requests and respect our right to refuse forced medical treatment so we may provide for our families and continue our education.