Dear Campus Community,
Like most of the world, through various media outlets, I have been watching in abject horror following Hamas attacks on Israel this weekend. What I have seen is horrific and triggering. The number of deaths and injuries to innocent lives in Israel and within Gaza is appalling. We must condemn this violence unequivocally and completely.
We know that this ongoing conflict engenders strong perspectives and feelings, and will affect our community in different ways. As an educational institution, we recognize the complex historical relationships among peoples and countries, particularly in this contested region, and its myriad transformations over time. Politics are complicated, but the sanctity of human life should never be taken for granted. There is no political, religious, or cultural principle that merits the murder of the innocent, and the one battle we should all be engaged in is the fight for inclusion, respect, and freedom for all people, regardless of their background or identity.
Our community of students, faculty, staff, and alumni who are impacted by these events, please know that we stand with you and offer the following:
- Brave Space sessions, a gathering to hold space for all impacted, on Monday, Oct. 16 at noon and Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. Zoom details will be sent separately
- Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at 1-800-367-7474. Confidential Advocate is available at 707-664-2698.
- To learn more about working for peace across faiths, contact the Interfaith Council of Sonoma County, Infor@Interfaith.Sonoma.org, (707) 206-2650
For information and options about supportive measures, resources on and off campus, resolution options, and/or to file a report related to discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct, please contact the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination at ophd@sonoma.edu or 707-664-4140.
Though we all hope for an immediate peaceful resolution, this current crisis may get worse before it gets better. As we attempt to make sense of the situation, we will grieve together, and must uphold one another in compassion, humanism, and kindness. During such challenging times, let us remember our Seawolf Commitment of integrity, respect, excellence, and responsibility while we stand strong for peace. SSU is committed to the safety and security of our Seawolf community.