Dear Spartan Community,
I write to further express campus support for community members harmed by graffiti threatening our Jewish community. I condemn all forms of antisemitism and am sickened by another expression of violence and hate.
As our community alert noted, each member of the San José State University community should be able to live, work, and study here without fear of being targeted because of their identity. I support all those who are helping us to live up to the ideals of Spartans taking care of Spartans.
Our Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dean of Students Office, and Office of Student Involvement have connected with Jewish student groups to offer support and healing opportunities. For students who need support please contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 408-924-5678 or visit sjsu.edu/wellness. Employees in need of support are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program.
The University Police Department is increasing safety patrols on campus and is further investigating the threat. If you feel unsafe, or if you have information about hurtful graffiti, please contact UPD at (408) 924-2222 or report through the Spartan Safe mobile app. Given the repeated nature of these kinds of incidents, we are also committing additional resources to prevention, investigation, and identification of individuals making threats to the safety of our community.
I fully recognize that the message etched on our campus may instill fear amongst faculty, staff, or students. At this time, the consensus of multiple law enforcement agencies that we have consulted is that there is no credible threat on March 11, and our work educating students should not be interrupted. The campus remains fully open and operational. Some students have asked about adjusting assignments and exams to accommodate concerns about this threat. In consultation with the provost, I ask that faculty be as accommodating as they can, but classes should remain as regularly scheduled unless the situation changes. UPD will keep the community updated on a daily basis.
As Spartans, we can all join together to focus intently on our values and on ensuring that our campus is a place where every student, faculty member, and staff member feels heard, respected, and cared for. Thank you for rejecting hate and violence and helping to make our campus better.
