MEDIA ADVISORY: Statement by Dr. Mark E. Keenum
Contact: Sid Salter
This is a statement from ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵPresident Mark E. Keenum in response to multiple media inquiries:
"Flags should unite us and bring us together, not divide us. The tragic events in South Carolina and the evolving national debate over the state flag is a debate that should take place today in Mississippi. In 2001, the ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Faculty Senate voted overwhelmingly in support of changing the state flag of Mississippi prior to the failed statewide voter referendum on that question. I have seen no indication that attitudes have changed on that question on our campus.
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"As the university with the highest percentage African American enrollment in the Southeastern Conference, this debate is relevant and important to us. Finally, ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵwould certainly prefer the opportunity to host NCAA championships on behalf of our student-athletes, coaches, and university community. Since 1963 and the 'Game of Change' with Loyola in the NCAA basketball tournament, ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵhas been unequivocal in our support for fair and inclusive competition."