The University of Dallas has recently announced a suspension of in-person activities for at least two weeks. In addition, they are requiring masks at all times while indoors, unless students are in their private dorm rooms. 

Covid has a survival rate of at least 98.4% (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/covid-data/covidview/index.html) That number includes those who had comorbidities (other severe illnesses simultaneously). This is also not taking into account the fact that a large portion of faculty and students at UD have been vaccinated. 

Everyone on campus chose in-person learning, with the understanding that there were risks involved. We felt that our education and freedom was more important than the (slim) possibility that we would suffer severely from Covid. We recognize and accept the risks inherent to living together in a normal and healthy way and we call upon the university to allow us that freedom. Those who feel the risk is too great should have online options. Covid may be a permanent part of our future, because, like other similar viruses, it will mutate every year. We can't and shouldn't live the rest of our lives in fear. In addition, lockdowns and isolation have had a severe affect on mental health and morale over the past year and a half and is an equally valid, although often ignored, health concern.

Those who are actually sick can and should try to protect others, as we would with any other flu virus, but we feel that the university is taking extreme measures. We would like to return to in-person activities and to enjoying each other's company, trusting in our God-given immune systems. We invite students, staff and parents to sign and make your voices heard. Thank you!