Rename the Strom Thurmond Biomedical Research Center at MUSC

I am writing to express my concern regarding the existence of a building on the Medical University of South Carolina campus named for a renowned segregationist - the Strom Thurmond Biomedical Research Center. In short, the life and beliefs of late Senator Strom Thurmond are in direct opposition to the university’s dedication to racial equity. No such symbol of discrimination should be maintained, and especially not in a space dedicated to the teaching or practice of medicine. As you well know, such a change would require invoking or repealing the SC Heritage Act. I therefore ask that you either 1) publicly support the building's renaming and vote in accordance with this, or 2) allow local municipalities to make their own decisions regarding buildings, statues, and roads commemorating Civil War and Civil Rights figures. Our employees, students, alumni, patients, and families deserve a welcoming and inclusive environment. Please support the renaming of the Strom Thurmond Biomedical Research Center at MUSC.

First sent on June 30, 2020 by Jonathan