MSU president, trustees issue statement on speaker

Michigan State University President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., and the MSU Board of Trustees issued the following statement regarding the appearance of a speaker on campus today, April 7:

“As leaders and stewards of Michigan State University, we understand that universities have a role in supporting free speech and encouraging diversity of thought. We uphold these principles as foundational to higher education.

At the same time, we recognize that recent comments attributed to a speaker coming to campus, who the university did not invite, have caused pain and concern, particularly among members of our Jewish community. Antisemitism and discrimination of any kind is unacceptable and inconsistent with our institutional values and has no place in a community grounded in respect, inclusion and dignity.

To combat antisemitism and other forms of bias against members of our diverse community, Michigan State University will continue to provide resources, dialogue, and education consistent with our values and mission.

We encourage those in need of support to access resources available to students through CAPS and for faculty and staff through MSU’s EAP, and please take care.”