About Not Unmindful

Reimagining our future: a call for change

Welcome to the movement for a truly inclusive and equitable future for our society and for Washington and Lee University in particular. Our mission began rooted in the belief that our institution's name should reflect its highest aspirations, not the burdens of a divisive past. We still stand for a name change that aligns the university with progressive values, moving decisively non in cautus futuri—not unmindful of the future. It's a movement that started among like-minded alumni in the wake of what happened Charlottesville and Minneapolis not really that long ago.

Our focus has now grown beyond the confines of the university, but that remains at the hear of our mission for the same reasons we fight for equity throughout society.

For too long, the "Lee" in Washington and Lee University has been a painful reminder of a history inextricably linked to slavery, white supremacy, the Confederacy, and the lost cause myth. While some narratives focus on Robert E. Lee's post-war role, this perspective minimizes his fundamental role in defending an abhorrent system of human bondage. From a progressive viewpoint, honoring a figure who fought to preserve slavery sends a deeply problematic message to black students, faculty, staff, and all who champion racial justice.

It overtly endorses the "Lost Cause" narrative, a pseudohistorical (i.e., bullshit) myth that romanticizes the Confederacy and downplays its horrific origins.

This isn't about erasing history; it's about making a conscious and progressive choice about what history we choose to honor and what values we project to the world. To be not unmindful of the future means actively shaping a future where our institutional identity reflects our commitment to justice and equality. It means anticipating evolving societal values and ensuring the university remains relevant and respected by attracting a diverse talent pool and ensuring long-term reputation and relevance in a world increasingly focused on equity.

A name change is a vital step toward creating a truly welcoming and diverse academic environment where all members of the community can thrive without feeling marginalized or disrespected by the very name of their institution. It's about ensuring the university's public identity authentically reflects its stated aspirations for diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture of critical self-reflection and progress that will inspire future generations.

We believe that a new name, chosen through an inclusive and transparent process, would not only sever ties with a painful past but also powerfully declare the university's unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and a forward-looking vision for higher education. Join us in this crucial effort to build a university that truly embodies the ideals of a progressive society, always mindful of the future we are building together.

While progress has been made, we will continue to hold the University's feet to the fire to ensure it continues.

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