Our country has recently witnessed a deeply disturbing increase in anti-Semitism and instances of prejudice and bigotry directed toward people of Asian or African descent and other diverse groups. This is wholly unacceptable anywhere. It is all the more unconscionable in a free and educated nation that anyone should fear for their safety or be forced to endure the vile rantings and sickening symbols of bigotry.
Penn is deeply committed to ensuring that every member of our community feels safe and supported. No individual or group—whether defined by race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion—should be subjected to intimidation or hostility. Hatred has no place on our campus or in our world. It is inimical to our values, and it is time for all of us to stand up to the hatred and to speak out against the prejudice that infects too much of society.
We are extraordinarily proud of the strong, vibrant, and diverse communities that we have at Penn. Differences of religion, race, nationality, sexual orientation, or gender identity and myriad other individual and group identities are critical in shaping a richly informative and innovative educational landscape. A diverse and inclusive campus is an essential part of who we are and aspire to be as a learning community. The past year has been one of the most challenging in our nation’s history. At all times, but especially in this difficult time, we want to assure every member of the Penn community of how much we value their presence at Penn, how fully we support them, and how deeply committed we are toward doing everything in our power to create a more just and inclusive society—one that rejects discrimination and bigotry and champions inclusion.
By working together, Penn is doing its part to meet the challenge of a worldwide pandemic. More remains to be done here at home and across the globe. We must also work together to defeat the diseases of hatred, prejudice, and bigotry. There can be no higher priority for us as a university.