TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police; Dr. Ryan Jasen Henne, Dean of Students.
Dear Campus Community,
As part of our continued effort to enhance safety, we want to share this information to help you make informed decisions regarding participation in Halloween festivities on our campus and in our surrounding communities.
CONCERNS ASSOCIATED WITH HALLOWEEN
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, there have been increased seizures of new, colorful forms of illicit fentanyl causing accidental fentanyl exposure by those who misidentify it as candy or other consumables. Fentanyl and other drugs resembling Skittles candy and Fruit Loops cereal have reportedly been found in the San Francisco Bay Area. As Halloween approaches, this may pose an increased risk to children and community members who commonly consume candy.
In prior years, community members have been negatively impacted by incidents of violence, overdoses of drugs and alcohol, and accidents involving driving under the influence. Please make sure if you observe these incidents to report them by dialing 9-1-1.
HAVE A PLAN – DON’T DELAY SEEKING HELP
In support of a safe and enjoyable Halloween, we encourage everyone to have a plan to stay safe, look after one another, and to keep in mind the following while enjoying the festive atmosphere in our communities:
- If you, or someone near you is suffering a medical emergency, including from alcohol or drug poisoning, do not delay calling 9-1-1. Timely calls to 9-1-1 save lives. Even if you aren't sure or don't want any trouble, please call.
- Be sure to charge your cell phone and be prepared to call 9-1-1 to report any suspicious behaviors or unsafe situations.
- Refrain from participating in or escalating any potential dangerous situation or circumstances and support your friends’ efforts to do the same.
- Be aware of the Rohnert Park City Ordinance (Chapter 9.48) regarding Alcohol Offenses, Loud and Unruly Gatherings, and Social Host Accountability, and/or Cotati’s City Ordinance (Chapter 9.38) regarding Alcohol Offenses/Loud Parties and their impact (legal and financial) if cited in violation.
- Always obtain clear consent from potential partners before engaging in any sexual activity.
- Do not drink and drive. Call a taxi or other for-hire transportation service.
- If you are celebrating in nearby off-campus communities or hospitality establishments, be respectful of others and those who may choose to enjoy a quiet experience.
- If you live on-campus, ensure that you follow all housing regulations and guidelines. Please cooperate with University Police and the Residential Education and Campus Housing staff, who will be helping to keep you and the community safe.
CULTURAL APPROPRIATION
We would encourage you to be intentional with your Halloween costume. Costumes are fun, but they can quickly become controversial. If you are planning to dress up for Halloween, or will be attending any social gatherings planned for the week, please ask yourself these questions before deciding upon your costume of choice:
- Wearing a "cultural" costume? Does this costume reduce cultural differences down to jokes or stereotypes?
- Wearing a funny costume? Exercise good judgment and be respectful of others who may not share similar humor.
- Wearing a clown costume? Be mindful that this outfit can generate emotional and sometimes dangerous responses.
- Wearing a historical costume? If this costume is meant to be historical, does it further misinformation or historical and cultural inaccuracies?
- Wearing an "action-based" costume? For everyone’s safety, leave weapon themed accessories at home.
Please know that Sonoma State University is a safe place to live and work but it is not crime-free. As you move about the campus and the surrounding cities, please remember if you see something, say something, report suspicious behavior, crime and emergency situations by dialing 9-1-1. Together we share in the responsibility of keeping one another safe.
We wish you all a fun and safe Halloween!