Today’s statement from Stanford University President Richard Salle and Provost Jeanne Martinez; “Jesus Mesa” reported that the graffiti included “FUCK AMERIKKKA”, “DE@ATH 2ISR@HELL”, ” Kill cops” and “PIGS TASTE BEST DEDAD”:
Dear Stamford Community,
We are shocked and deeply saddened by the actions that occurred on our campus earlier today.
As you know from the earlier alert, a group of protesters broke into and occupied Building 10 early this morning until they were arrested and ejected by law enforcement. As part of the response to the occupation, a public safety officer was injured by protesters.
As well as causing damage to the building’s interior, protesters this morning also carried out extensive graffiti vandalism on sandstone buildings and columns in the main square. These graffiti convey vileness and hatred that we condemn in the strongest terms. Whether the graffiti was created by members of the Stanford community or outsiders, we hope that the vast majority of the community will join us in resisting this attack on campus.
Thirteen people were arrested in Building 10 this morning. Any student arrested will be immediately suspended from school, except through law enforcement proceedings. Senior students will not be allowed to graduate. These actions are necessary given the public safety threats posed to our campus community.
The Department of Public Safety is continuing to investigate all illegal conduct that occurred on our campus this morning. We encourage you to contact DPS at (650) 329-2413 and provide any information you may have.
The university also dismantled the encampment in White Square. As you know, this camp has violated multiple University policies since its inception. Although students were sent to the Office of Community Standards for disciplinary action for policy violations, we have allowed the camp to remain in place to this day.
The situation on campus has now shifted from peaceful protests to actions that threaten the safety of the community. It all started with the recent attempted occupation of Building 570 and has escalated into today’s very unfortunate incident. The encampment has been removed for public safety.
There are still many ways for members of our community to peacefully express diverse views on important global issues in a manner that is consistent with our University policies. We value continued peaceful and rational debate but strongly condemn any action taken today.
