Letter to the Rear Admiral James E. Rendon, Superintendent of US Coast Guard Academy - Issues of Racial Hostility

Letter

Dear Admiral Rendón:

As members of the Connecticut federal delegation, we are writing in reference to a news story in The Day on Saturday, September 2, 2017, which detailed disturbing allegations from minority cadets alleging that an atmosphere of racial hostility exists on campus. As strong supporters of the Academy and its historic role of producing the Coast Guard's leadership, we are sure you agree that a meaningful, transparent response is required to further advance the institution's mission.

We recognize that the Academy has been engaged in a concerted effort to boost minority enrollment over the last eight years and has shown significant progress in the numbers at the time of matriculation. Higher admission rates have to be coupled with robust retention in order to ensure a higher graduation rate for minority cadets so that Coast Guard leadership ultimately reflects the multicultural makeup of the country's population. Ensuring that the Academy's environment and culture are free of any racial animus is critical to achieving such an outcome.

As supporters of the Academy, we are committed to helping accomplish that goal. In the meantime, we would appreciate your prompt response to this matter.

Yours truly,

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