Dear Members of the Barnard Community,
The loss of life and ongoing violence caused by the Hamas deadly attacks on Israel are absolutely devastating. These events are beyond horrific and touch close to home for many members of our diverse Barnard community.
I extend my deepest condolences to all who are mourning the loss of friends, family members, or colleagues in Israel and Gaza. I know that many of us are also frightened for the safety of loved ones still in the region and troubled by related hate across the globe, including right here in New York.
This is a time to come together to condemn the loss of life and the conflict’s impact on innocent civilians. It is also a time to affirm that Barnard supports all of our students, faculty, staff, and alumnae.
We reject antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate, both in intent and effect. We also remain committed to intellectually honest and respectful discourse and the vital importance of discussing difficult topics, including the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict, in an environment free from fear and hate. For those seeking to hear more perspectives about these unfolding events, I direct you to the SIPA webinar hosted by Columbia today at 4 PM.
I also acknowledge that many of us are struggling. We possess passionate and often conflicting views about a range of issues. In this moment of great uncertainty and pain, I hope we will extend each other compassion and understanding.
Laura Ann Rosenbury
President, Barnard College