Letter to the Editor: Student leaders call for Rock-painting hiatus

October 2, 2012

Dear fellow Wildcats,

This past week has been especially trying for our community. A spectrum of emotions accompany the loss of a member of our Northwestern family. Since Harsha’s passing, our campus has dealt with feelings of confusion, pain, sadness, anxiety, anger and more. But we also have had the opportunity to remember, to reflect and to find comfort in our peers. Harsha will not be forgotten.

Last Thursday, Northwestern came together for a candlelight vigil and painted The Rock in remembrance of Harsha. In Hindu tradition, the period of mourning lasts for 13 days after the funeral of the deceased. From Harsha’s funeral on October 1st until October 14th, in respect of this tradition, we ask that our community refrain from painting The Rock.

We greatly appreciate your continued support and the solidarity that our Northwestern family has shown from the very beginning. Together, we are stronger than we could ever be alone.

Thank you again for your continued support for Harsha’s family, friends and our entire community.

Sincerely,

Victor Shao | President, Associated Student Government

Brad Stewart | Executive Vice President, Associated Student Government

Ani Ajith | Speaker of the Senate, Associated Student Government

Girish Pendse | Financial Vice President, Associated Student Government

Lauren Masterson | Student Groups Vice President, Associated Student Government

Pat Schnettler | President, Interfraternity Council

Isabella Pasbakhsh | President, Multicultural Greek Council

Juliana Singleton | President, National Pan-Hellenic Council

Emily Jordan | President, Panhellenic Association

Mirza Drino | President, Residence Hall Association