Dear Campus Community, 

I have been reflecting on and recognize every day the pain, sadness, anger, and fear that many are experiencing as a result of what is happening around the world. I also know individuals are struggling to come to terms with personal experiences, feelings, and in some cases – regrettably – first hand tragedies. Unfortunately, there are no easy answers. And while the war in Gaza is far from us, its impact is felt here too.  

As the war continues, emotions are running high on college and university campuses throughout the country. UNLV is no exception. Three protests have occurred on our Maryland Parkway campus since this war began, as well as educational workshops, and vigils to honor and remember those who have lost their lives. In some instances, the people participating in – or even organizing – these activities are not members of the campus community. But as a public urban university, every individual has a right to visit our campus.    

From the onset of this crisis, I have been committed to hearing from all members of our university community – individuals and groups – with different perspectives and positions. Certainly, the statistic that Jews represent only 3 percent of the U.S. population, but represent more than half of all the religious-based hate crimes is tremendously alarming and why I denounce antisemitism and have kept my door open to those who wish to share their personal fears and concerns. As a campus, we reject antisemitism in all its forms. We will work to combat it whenever we see it and to educate our community about its history. 

I also recognize that Muslims face discrimination and are victims of violence in our country. I recently heard about such struggles in a meeting with representatives of the UNLV Muslim Student Association. We reject any discrimination against those of the Muslim faith and will work to promote a campus free from hate.  

I want to re-emphasize my previous commitment that we are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment for every student, faculty, and staff member at UNLV. Individuals are encouraged to report any situations of discriminatory practices, behavior, or incidents. Processes exist for such reports to be investigated and addressed. Further, any situation which threatens or intimidates students, faculty, or staff is of paramount concern. University Police Services and the Office of Student Conduct continue to investigate any such threats or complaints.

I am also committed to protecting First Amendment rights at our university and on our campuses, including the right to free speech and the right to peaceably assemble. I myself have been a target of offensive speech related to this issue, but those expressions are protected by the First Amendment. Recently, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) distributed an open letter to college and university presidents stressing the importance of free speech and exchange of ideas on higher education campuses, especially during times of conflict such as this. I continue to work with university leadership to assess whether any campus activities or protests exceed the boundaries of the First Amendment, and what additional measures might be necessary to further ensure the safety of our campuses. We will continue to proactively monitor the situation in order to take action when warranted and necessary. 

I am keenly aware of the range of emotions the war has generated, and I continue to pray for all the innocent victims of this conflict. I ask the UNLV community to remain respectful of each other, regardless of your views. 

Respectfully,

Keith E. Whitfield, Ph.D
President