We vehemently oppose and implore you to reconsider the Covid-19 vaccine mandate at Naropa. Since the long-term effects of these vaccines are unknown, many of us do not feel that there is enough information to give our informed consent. While we understand the bureaucratic pressures to follow suit with other institutions, it feels disappointing that we need to remind an institution such as ours that coercion does not mean consent. People have a variety of reasons for not wanting to or, being able to get vaccinated, all of which are protected rights in the state of Colorado (see medical exemptions and Senate Bill 163 for codified personal belief exemptions).

It is distressing and oppressing to hear that Naropa wants to segregate and divide our community by remanding people with valid vaccination exemptions (regardless of the reason) to online learning. For an institution that speaks so adamantly about inclusivity and acceptance, we ask you to honor your values, honor our humanity, and honor our freedom of choice when it comes to our bodies.

The undersigned here include those who personally will not be vaccinated, as well as, those who have been vaccinated and are in support of personal choice when it comes to this matter.