We are deeply saddened by the possibility that budget cuts may disproportionately cut support to Dartmouth students of diversity, particularly those benefiting from services offered by the Office of Pluralism and Leadership (OPAL).

Although these services may directly affect a minority of students, they benefit us all. A diverse academic community is one that fosters the gifts of people from many different backgrounds, gifts which enrich us all.

Diversity at Dartmouth is a relatively new tradition, but we are as proud of this tradition as we are of the homecoming bonfire, winter carnival, and first year DOC trips. Standing as sister stands by brother, we stand by our gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender brothers and sisters, our Asian, Native American, Black, Latino and international brothers and sisters, our Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu brothers and sisters and our brothers and sisters of diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

In the rush to balance our budget, let us not lose our values. We understand cuts will be made, but we ask that they not disproportionately affect the most vulnerable students among us.