Dear members of the Â鶹AV community, Â
I am writing to update you as we work to resolve the situation on the field on lower campus. Â
The heartbreaking situation in the Middle East that has led to the encampment on Â鶹AV campus is complex. I recognize the diversity of positions on the subject and the need for these perspectives to be heard. Â
I recognize the pain people on all sides are feeling and the human suffering caused by these events. I hear it in the conversations I have with people from Â鶹AV and outside, and it deeply pains me. I would like nothing better than for peace to prevail. Â
Everyone has a right to protest and express their views in an appropriate manner and place. I support the right of all members of Â鶹AV community to do so on our campuses in ways that respect the law and Â鶹AV’s policies and procedures. Â
However, no one, let alone individuals from outside Â鶹AV, has the right to set up an encampment on the University’s property, including the grounds. Â
By their own declaration through explicit signs, the current encampment includes a variety of groups with no association with Â鶹AV. This cannot be accepted and will not be allowed. Therefore, the encampment must be dismantled quickly, and this is non-negotiable. Â
We have reached out again to the lawyers retained by some members of the Â鶹AV community to try to restart our discussions as we continue to collaborate with police. Â
I felt it was important to let Â鶹AVians as a whole know the proposal we had offered to them. Â
If members of the Â鶹AV community in the encampment permanently leave the encampment immediately, I commit to holding a forum with members of the Â鶹AV community to discuss your various demands and any contrary views in a peaceful, respectful, and civilized manner. Â
Our discussions today will be only with Â鶹AV community members. To those not affiliated with Â鶹AV, let me reiterate that you must leave Â鶹AV property immediately. Â
As we navigate this difficult situation, our goals are to ensure the health and safety of our community and maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive campus environment, that prioritizes our mission of teaching, learning and research. Â
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Deep Saini
President and Vice-Chancellor
Â鶹AV