Dear President Roth:
We hope you’ve had a nice start to the new school year. We respectfully request the installation of a memorial plaque outside of Usdan. This plaque is entitled the “Wesleyan Animal Recognition Memorial” and it challenges us to confront the realities of our food system and honor the countless animals who were killed so that their bodies could be served as food in the dining hall.
The plaque (rendering included below) is an invitation to consider that every meal offers an opportunity to make choices that are kinder to animals. As living, feeling beings who value their lives in the same way that we value ours, animals deserve our empathy and consideration.
This project builds upon a longstanding tradition of concern for animals at Wesleyan, which for decades has been led by students and faculty who care deeply about the ideals of non-violence, freedom, and justice. We must not ignore the suffering of billions of animals who are confined, abused, exploited, and killed as part of our modern food system. By commemorating the animals who lost their lives to become food, we uphold our institutional commitment to open dialogue and the honest examination of all forms of oppression, including those that cross species lines.
We believe that, in honoring these animals, we also honor our own community values: creating space for reflection, empathy, and informed discussion. As you have emphasized, a university must not shy away from difficult conversations; freedom of expression and political engagement are central to the very mission of colleges. We ask for your support in installing this plaque, as a recognition of these animals and a reminder that, at every meal, we have the option to choose compassion over cruelty and complicity.
Thank you for considering this request and for continuing to foster an environment that welcomes dialogue, reflection, and growth.
Sincerely,
Yoyo Watanabe, ’28
Professor Lori Gruen
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