Many students at Saint Anselm College have deep concerns about the college’s decision to host former US President, Donald Trump, for a Town Hall hosted by CNN on May 10th. As a senior at the college, I believe that his presence poses a significant threat to our campus community.

Donald Trump has repeatedly shown himself to be an anti-American figure who undermines the American government and our electoral process. His divisive rhetoric and policies promote bigotry, racism and hatred, resulting in harm to marginalized communities. His incitement of violence during the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol is deeply troubling; in fact, during his recent visit to speak at the DoubleTree in Manchester, he stopped at the Red Arrow Diner where he praised a woman who was convicted in the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot. 

As a college community, we should not be providing a platform for such dangerous and harmful views. Hosting Donald Trump at Saint Anselm College legitimizes his actions and words, despite the criminal charges currently being held against him. It sends the message that his behavior is acceptable to the college, which is hopefully not true.

Here at the college, we pride ourselves on being an “Anselmian” community, which rises above divisive politics. This issue is more than divisive politics. ALL Anselmians should feel safe on this campus, knowing that our administration would not knowingly attract a crowd who may make us feel unsafe – especially those who belong to marginalized communities. Students, faculty, and staff members who feel unsafe with Donald Trump’s visit will forever remember the college’s decision to ignore their comfort and safety. 

Furthermore, hosting a hateful and harmful figure like Donald Trump dampens the recent and upcoming milestones in our community, such as the commitment of future students and the graduation of seniors.

I urge you to sign this petition, encouraging the college to reconsider this decision and cancel the event. As an institution of higher education, we have a responsibility to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. Hosting a figure like Donald Trump goes against this mission and undermines the values that Saint Anselm College stands for.