This is a dark chapter in UCLA’s history. We, the leadership of the International Institute, acknowledge the pain felt by many members of our community. We reaffirm our commitment to the principles of free speech, free expression and academic freedom. We support international education that deepens our collective understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and peoples, contextualizes and historicizes conflicts in the world, and contributes to just and equitable solutions.

We stand in solidarity with students, faculty, and staff who exercise their right to engage in peaceful protest. We were horrified by the brutal mob attack on the protesters on our campus on April 30-May 1, 2024. We condemn in the strongest possible terms the outside agitators’ despicable crimes. We are also appalled by the actions of law enforcement. It permitted the violent mob assault with impunity and the use of potentially deadly force when it destroyed the encampment and arrested protesters on May 2, 2024. We urge the university administration to ensure that members of our community and their nonviolent expressions of free thinking are protected now and in the future, and that the campus remains a safe place for all.

* This statement is not speaking for the university, all members of the International Institute, or the campus as a whole.

Published: Wednesday, May 8, 2024