Restrospective: Yale's presidents speak out in face of catastrophe

On the night after the attack on Pearl Harbor, 1,500 Yale students and New Haven residents rioted in the streets chanting, "Let's go to Tokyo," and "To Hell with Hirohito." President Seymour addressed the crowd.

"Men of Yale, you know as I know that tonight this nation is under attack and that the nation will respond to that attack immediately and vigorously. This is not the first time in American history that Yale men have gathered together to express their loyalty to the nation. I remember in 1898 and in 1917 similar gatherings. I am happy that you realize the serious nature of the situation and that you are ready to serve where you best may serve. In this day of trial there are two factors necessary: first, complete unity, the obliteration of all domestic discord, and second, that self-discipline upon which democracy is based." —President Charles Seymour, Dec. 7, 1941

Following President John F. Kennedy's assassination, Yale suspended classes from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on November 25th, 1963 for the burial service.

"This is dreadful. We must resolve that one demented act shall not unhinge the good will, the stability, and the continuity essential to our nation's peace and progress. To this end, we give President Johnson our full and prayerful support." —President Kingman Brewster, Nov. 22, 1963

Reactions to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on Apr. 5, 1968 ranged from the Yale Black Coalition's declaration of a mourning period to increased racial tensions and several local and national memorial services. Classes were cancelled on Apr. 8.

"Dedication to the memory of Martin Luther King is dedication to humanity and to community. When all men feel that they are equal partners in the human community; when there is a feeling of brotherhood among all men; then, and only then, will the life of Martin Luther King be fulfilled. These goals must engage us all: students, faculty, administrators, and trustees." —President Kingman Brewster, Apr. 1968

In the wake of terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, including the loss of four commercial airliners, President Levin addressed a crowd of thousands at a candlelight vigil on Cross Campus.

"Unthinkable acts of terror were perpetrated against thousands of innocent victims. This is a tragedy that disturbs the integrity of our nation and threatens the peace of the planet. And it is a tragedy that reaches in personal terms to all of us...Yale is a community of concern, and to those of you who grieve and to those of you who are afraid, I say, we will do everything we can to help and support you. We must also not rush to judgment. We do not yet know who was responsible for these attacks, but we should remember that it was the work of individuals — not the work of a people, a race, or a unified nation....Above all, take this occasion to care for one another, to pray for those who suffer in grief or uncertainty, to pray for justice and for peace on earth." —President Richard Levin, Sept. 11, 2001

—Compiled by Jennifer Heilbronner

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