Our names are Erika and Carolyn, and we created this petition in support of renaming the houses in Watterson Towers. 

Built in 1969 and housing just over 2,000 Freshman and Sophomore students at Illinois State University, Watterson Towers is an integral part of housing. Watterson is the tallest building between Chicago and St. Louis and is equipped with its own dining center and Subway, making it a popular hub for students. However, the names of the houses in Watterson Towers represent the dark history our nation has. The houses named after former U.S. Secretaries of State are as follows: Robert Smith, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, Edmund Randolph, John Adams,Timothy Pickering, Henry Clay, George Marshall, Martin Van Buren, and James Madison. With exceptions for Adams and Pickering, all of these individuals were slave holders. 

In their official Diversity Statement University Housing Services states that, “University Housing Services strives to create inclusive communities where diversity is valued. University Housing Services empowers individuals, challenges injustices, and remains committed to the work of diversity and inclusion.” Can a space be considered diverse and inclusive while it is named after individuals who committed massive human rights violations? How can individuals feel empowered while living in a space that honors tainted historical figures? 

Having something named after you is an honor, and this privilege should be reserved for individuals who did not commit human rights violations. Demand that University Housing Services renames the houses in Watterson Towers! These are not just names, but symbols that carry meaning. Renaming the houses in Watterson Towers after people who have changed our society for the better and made a positive impact for many will mean more to our campus community. We request that students, specifically students of color, are given the most active role and voice in the renaming process.