Statement from Seattle Central President on Executive Order
Dear Campus Community:
On Friday, Jan. 27, President Trump issued an executive order that prohibits citizens of seven countries – Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen – from entering the U.S. for 90 days, and suspends the entry of all refugees for 120 days.
The complete extent to which this order will affect our employees and students is not yet known, but we are already witnessing disturbing impacts. This order is causing a significant amount of fear and anxiety among our student body, especially our Muslim students, who are unsure of what will happen next.
It is possible that additional actions taken by the administration and rulings by the courts will create a fast-changing policy environment. Future executive orders could also impact the LGBTQ community, undocumented students and other vulnerable groups. Because this situation is extremely concerning to me and so many in our community, I want to share with you the ways our college is addressing and responding to issues and challenges that are surfacing.
- I say unequivocally, and repeat the promise from an earlier message sent jointly by the chancellor and presidents of the Seattle Colleges District, that we are committed to protecting the safety, security and well-being of all students and employees.
- We will continue to consult with city, state and federal officials and advocacy groups regarding how best to support our students, faculty and staff, including several international students who are from the listed countries
- As updated information becomes available about this and any future orders, we will post it to a special area of our website alongside resources for campus civic engagement.
- For those in need of support during this uncertain time, the Employee Assistance Program is available to help you.
This recent order absolutely does not reflect the values our college holds dear. Please know that no matter what country you call home, we support all of you, and will continue working to create a diverse, inclusive and equitable community.
Sincerely,
Sheila Edwards Lange, Ph.D.
President