We continue to be very troubled by the executive order, now upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, that prohibits travelers from seven countries from entering the United States, five of them majority-Muslim. In previous statements on this issue, we have been clear in stating that this ban is injurious to our University’s work and inimical to our values. Last year we joined with other leading universities in filing an amicus brief in the case because it is so critically important that we work to protect the rights of students and scholars to travel to our campuses. While we are keenly aware of the need to protect national security, we also firmly believe in our nation’s long-held commitment to the extraordinary value of immigration to our society.
Penn’s reach spans the globe, with a commitment to research, teaching, and learning that is relevant to a changing global society. We strive to attract the best scholars, faculty, and students from our nation and from across the globe. We work across international borders. This strengthens our university by exposing our students to diverse viewpoints and cultures; it is good for America’s economy; and it ultimately expands appreciation for American values around the world. The Administration’s pursuit of this ban lessens our ability to do this vital work.
Penn will continue to offer support to our students and faculty who may be impacted by the Court’s decision and we will continue to strive to provide a campus that is welcoming to scholars and students from all countries, faiths, and walks of life.