February 11, 2017
Dear American Indian Studies Majors and Minors,
Because we support and cherish our students, and in light of recent reports of on-campus harassment, vandalism, and violence, we want to assure you that we stand with you and support you. We are here to speak with you if you feel the need to reach out to us.
As University of Washington faculty and staff, we will continue with our teaching and scholarship, and our commitment to serving students. We respect and value all students and do not discriminate based on race, gender, class, religion, or political views. The Department of American Indian Studies is committed to providing a place where the privacy and rights of all members of our community are respected, including anyone who has been the target of abuse, harassment, or discrimination. We stand with community members who are undocumented. We realize individuals, families, and communities continue to face new threats as a result of the presidential election, and we welcome you to talk with us about any anxieties, fears, or concerns you have.
You may also seek assistance and comfort at wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ - Intellectual House. Their staff issued the following statement:
"The staff at wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ would like to advertise our facility as a safe space on the University of Washington campus. If you are being stalked, harassed, followed, intimidated, or threatened, the Intellectual House is a safe space to seek help. Race, faith, sexuality, and gender based violence has increased on college campuses across the country this week. The first line of the wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ mission states: “This is a space where our students need never be alone.” We are here to uphold that mission. Our facility stands as a reminder to all who visit that the University sits upon tribal lands where Coast Salish longhouses once stood. We have always been here and we will always be here."
We encourage you to contact any of us if you are in need of additional support. If you see an incident of bias or harassment, please report it at https://report.bias.washington.edu. SafeCampus is also here to support you and can be reached at 206.685.SAFE or 206.685.7233. More information about campus safety is available from Student Life.
The non-emergency University of Washington Police Department line is 206.685.UWPD or 206.685.8973. For any situation that constitutes an emergency, you should always call 911.
International Student Services and the Office of Global Affairs provide resources and information for students impacted by the travel ban.
We remain committed to providing an excellent education and a welcoming environment for all students. We will find strength in our humanity, in what makes us strong, what makes us good, what makes us a community.
Sincerely,
Department of American Indian Studies Faculty and Staff