UMD Releases Statement on Controversial 'Un-Fair Campaign'

The University of Minnesota – Duluth recently published a statement regarding its participation in Duluth’s controversial Un-Fair Campaign.  

The campaign, which is aimed at creating a dialogue about racism, is being criticized as offensive. Billboards and posters around Duluth say "It's hard to see racism when you're white."

Mayor Don Ness says the campaign has been a lightning rod for hate groups outside the community, according to the Associated Press.

Last week, a public service announcement from the campaign aired that says “society was set up for us [whites]” and as such is “unfair.” The ads feature a number of Caucasians talking about the supposed privilege that comes along with their fair features.

UMD said in a statement that “we understand that the recent Un-Fair Campaign public service announcement is divisive and has alienated some people. That's concerning to us as a public institution whose goal it is to provide a welcoming environment for all people.”

The university also said that they fully support the foundations and principles of the Un-Fair Campaign but feel that the PSA is divisive, and they do not agree with the creative strategy.

“UMD expressed displeasure to the partnership that the PSAs were aired without a chance for our review. We will continue to discuss our concerns with the partnership and will require review of all future campaign materials and efforts to ensure they foster constructive dialogue and do not alienate people in our community,” the statement said.

Other campaign partners include the city of Duluth, St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services, the NAACP, the YMCA, and the University of Wisconsin-Superior, among others.

To view the PSA, click here.