March 15, 2019

Our unwavering support

We write to express our shock and deep sorrow following today’s attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Our profound sympathies and support go out to the families and loved ones of the victims, and to all members of the Muslim community in New Zealand and around the world.

This senseless massacre brings particular pain to members of Stanford’s Muslim community, as well as to all in our community who call New Zealand home. The horror of this act carries a painful reminder of the presence of hatred, intolerance, and anti-Muslim sentiment alive in our world today. At Stanford, we condemn such attacks and denounce the hate and prejudice they stem from in the strongest terms. These appalling acts are antithetical to the fundamental values of our university.

To all members of Stanford’s Muslim community, please know that you are an integral part of our Stanford family. We deeply value you and your presence in our community. By sharing your faith and culture with others, you do the hard work of helping to create deeper bonds of understanding and connection with people from all faiths and backgrounds. In these uncertain times, we need these bonds of understanding more than ever.

A vigil will be held at 2 p.m. today in the courtyard of Old Union, following Jummah prayers. Members of the Stanford community are invited to attend as a demonstration of solidarity. Support is also available at The Markaz.

We stand in solidarity with the victims, their families, and with members of the Stanford Muslim community who may feel under attack today. We will do our part to continue to promote understanding, support every member of our community, and counter prejudice on campus and in our world. Stanford stands with you, today and every day.