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Listen and learn from the community – VCU News

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Dear VCU Community:

As a follow-up to my statement earlier this week about what is happening in Israel and Gaza, senior university leadership and I today spoke with student leaders and advisors from VCU’s Islamic Student Association, the Palestinian Student Organization, and VCU’s I met with Hillel and Black. Muslim populations and Jewish life at VCU.

We did so to hear directly from the students about my message and what is happening in Israel and Gaza. Understandably, students are feeling hurt, sad, angry, and anxious about what is happening.

During my talk, I shared two important points.

First, I reiterated something I’ve said many times this week. It remains a heartbreaking fact that innocent civilians of Israelis, Palestinians, Americans, and many other nationalities were killed, injured, and their homes and communities destroyed.

We must always place the highest value on every human life, no matter where they are.

He then emphasized that all members of the VCU community must feel safe, welcome, and respected on campus. This is a priority.

We will be meeting with members of the VCU Qatar campus again next week. We also carefully read messages and engaged in conversations with other students, faculty, staff, and alumni of various faiths and backgrounds.

I am extremely proud of my students and everyone who spoke out this week and offered some very thoughtful advice. Our students are true inclusive leaders, creating positive change on their campuses and communities.

The University is here to provide support and care to everyone who needs it. Student support resources include: timely care and university counseling services, available 24 hours a day at 804-828-6200. Faculty resources can be found at VCU. Ram Strong program.

Difficult times and conversations will continue. So take care of your own physical, emotional and spiritual health in the coming days and weeks. Like the VCU community, please show compassion for all those suffering in our community.

Sincerely,

michael rao
VCU President