A message from President Elam addressing the College's response to student demonstration activity on campus.
Dear Occidental Community,
This morning, we became aware of a demonstration encampment constructed on Occidental's quad. In response, and as always, our priorities include keeping the campus community safe and respecting community members’ ability to express themselves while keeping people free from harassment.
One of Occidental’s highest purposes is to empower our community to learn to engage in society and advocate for their positions in a manner that moves difficult dialogues forward, regardless of the issue. The group currently in the quad has so far engaged in peaceful demonstration. We will continue to communicate with them about the College's expectations for maintaining safety, being mindful of others and others' perspectives, and avoiding disruption of other events and operations on campus. We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure that any dialogue or demonstration remains safe and peaceful.
We recognize that demonstration around complex topics that engender a range of views and perspectives can create pain for others, regardless of the intent of the dialogue. We encourage any students who are affected to make use of available resources on campus. Students who seek support and assistance may reach out directly to offices such as the Emmons Wellness Center, the Office for Religious and Spiritual Life and the Civil Rights & Title IX Office. The Dean of Students Office will also be available to address any concerns related to your academic experience.
Employees who want mental or emotional well-being resources may take advantage of the Employee Assistance Program.
We will provide an update on this developing situation by tomorrow morning.
President Elam