TALK BACK with TJ: Hands Off UVA!

We will gather in urgent interdependence on the 4th of July at 1:00 p.m. at the University of Virginia Rotunda Jefferson statue (University Avenue side) for a peaceful rally demonstrating our collective dismay at the forced resignation of UVA President Jim Ryan — an attempted hostile takeover of the University by the Federal Government that flies in the face of historically struggled-for ideals, values, and civil rights. A range of University and community stakeholders will each briefly speak. The rally’s second part will feature an open mic for public expression (2-minute limit per person). Media is welcome. We will spread attendees' messages to amplify the event's impact (hopefully nationwide) through social media in the wake of the rally. 

We call on the UVA Board of Visitors to defend the independence of the University on behalf of the people of Virginia and beyond. While the world watches to see what we do in response to this outrage, we will assert at the Rotunda evolving visions of democracy and academic freedom – reclaiming them at the very place on these Grounds where torch-bearing white supremacists and antisemites converged in August 2017.

Organized by UPRISE! Creative Collective C’ville, co-sponsor Indivisible Charlottesville