Dear Dr. Bowling: Firstly, I want to thank you for engaging with this petition in an open and honest way. As an alumnus, I am encouraged by the open dialogue on this topic, and I hope it continues. There is an old saying, “guilt by association,” which has proven true to many people who believed themselves to be innocent of a crime or transgression. I was raised to believe that who we associate ourselves with defines our character and values. I even remember a chapel service on the same topic. My character, partially shaped at Olivet, and I believe shared by a number of alumni and students, values things like diversity, equality, respect, and inclusiveness. In short, a motto similar to Olivet’s, “We believe you belong here.” To march in the inauguration is to associate with Donald Trump. One must question, then, what the Olivet motto now means in light of this association. “We believe you belong here,” except for Muslims, as Donald Trump has called for a ban on their entering our country. “We believe you belong here,” except for women, who Donald Trump has bragged about sexually assaulting. And, to be clear, such language would receive severe punishment if said on campus. Furthermore, sexual assault is a felony. “We believe you belong here,” except for Mexicans, who, according to Donald Trump, are rapists and drug dealers. Unfortunately, this list could continue for many pages, referencing Donald Trump’s comments on people with special needs, women’s physical appearance, sexual orientation, wealth, constitutional rights, and race. One must ask, Dr. Bowling, what does the Olivet motto of inclusiveness now mean? To march in the inauguration is an incredible contradiction to the morals of Olivet. To associate with Donald Trump, to go so far as celebrating his election, is to share in the guilt of his hate, sexism, racism, and xenophobia. In short, in supporting Donald Trump, Olivet shares in his message. Olivet cannot “honor the office of the presidency,” and yet ignore the man. It is an act of linguistic gymnastics to claim clean hands while supporting a man as morally corrupt as Donald Trump. Olivet is guilty by association. To march in the inauguration parade would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for the students. But, the opportunity to stand up for the oppressed, the marginalized, and the assaulted is a life-time calling. I choose to support those who both have been and will be discriminated against in Donald Trump’s presidency. I hope Olivet will choose to live up to its motto and do the same. Sincerely, Brian T. Murphy