October 31, 2019
Regardless of political affiliation or preferences, the institution of higher learning should remain intact to ensure the learning environment is optimal for any student seeking improvement through education.
In the spirit of support, solidarity, and commitment, the University of Illinois Latina/Latino Alumni Association (LLAA) stands with students, and other campus organizations that have been impacted by the negative communication propagated from University leadership, including University of Illinois Chancellor Robert J. Jones. The LLAA supports initiatives to bring further discussion by University Housing and Multicultural Advocates whose sole mission is to serve as leaders and role models within the residence hall community by confronting acts of intolerance or hate, encouraging dialogue among students, and working toward the creation of truly inclusive communities. Multicultural Advocates assumes an active role in the advancement of multiculturalism and social justice within the residence halls through community and staff development, education, celebration, and dialogue.
We call-to-action the University, and student organizations on campus, to come together and provide programming and training to educate and reiterate the distinction between anti-Semitism and advocating for Palestinians in voicing their reality on campus about their state in their country peacefully.
LLAA condemns anti-Semitic violence, such as the reported swastika on the Foreign Languages building. We extend our solidarity to Jewish students on campus who are impacted by this violent anti-Semitism and the hope that such hate crimes never be committed on our land-grant institution of higher learning again. We stand with all oppressed people fighting for liberation and encourage folks to continue to have productive conversations and come to a resolution.
LLAA cares for everyone on campus, and stands with you, in solidarity through our shared commitment of self-improvement through education. The LLAA will always fight, as a collective voice for our membership, campus and students, for their well-being, safety, dignity, and will strive to protect appropriately.
In firm solidarity,
The University of Illinois Latina/Latino Alumni Association
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