To the Office of Community Standards,
We, the undersigned members of the University of Notre Dame community, write to express our deep concern and outrage regarding a disturbing incident that occurred on Thursday, October 12, at approximately 2:15 p.m. within the premises of the Hesburgh Center. We believe that the actions of a student, here on referred to as “X,” warrant immediate dismissal from the University of Notre Dame in accordance with the Office of Community Standards.
It has come to our attention that X engaged in abusive and harassing behavior towards other fellow students during the aforementioned incident. X is reported to have spit at the feet of a fellow student due to their choice to wear a Palestinian scarf, commonly known as a Keffiyeh. The Keffiyeh is a traditional garment worn by individuals in Palestine and holds cultural significance.
Following this incident, the student and their friend attempted to engage X outside the building by requesting their name. In response, X hurled derogatory and offensive language at them, referring to them as “a bunch of dirty animals.” This behavior is not only deeply disrespectful, but also offensive and discriminatory to everyone who chooses to show their solidarity for the Palestinian people.
Subsequently, the friend asked for their name again and X told them to “shut up.” Then, another student intervened, seeking to address the situation and inform X about their own Jewish background. In response, X continued to engage in offensive and hateful language, referring to the student of Jewish faith as a “believer in baby murderers and rapists.”
We believe the actions of X violate the Standards of Conduct referenced below. The following actions and behaviors are clearly inconsistent with the University’s expectations for membership in this community:
- Abusive or harassing behavior, including unwelcome communication
- Willful damage to the reputation or psychological well-being of another
- Discriminatory harassment
X has caused significant harm to the psychological well-being of these students, engaged in profiling and made derogatory comments about individuals who wear the Keffiyeh. They also verbally degraded a student who attempted to engage in peaceful conflict resolution. Moreover, X’s behavior has created a serious disturbance within the University community, infringing upon the well-being of others and causing a hostile and unwelcoming environment.
Regardless of the political climate or personal beliefs, it is imperative to underscore that acts of discrimination, harassment, and hate are never justified. Such actions flagrantly violate the University Standards of Conduct, which are designed to maintain a safe and inclusive campus environment for all. We firmly believe that the only appropriate methods for addressing grievances related to political or societal concerns are through open dialogue, constructive discourse, seeking support from mental health resources, engaging with the University’s conflict resolution mechanisms and participating in educational initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and empathy among the community. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our campus remains a space where diversity is celebrated, and all members are treated with respect and dignity.
In light of the aforementioned incident, we, the undersigned, respectfully request that the University of Notre Dame take immediate and decisive action to dismiss X. Such behavior is contrary to the principles of respect, tolerance and inclusivity that the University stands for and actively promotes. It is imperative that we protect the well-being of our community members and uphold the values of our institution.
We hope that the University will address this matter promptly and effectively to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all its students and uphold its commitment to diversity, respect and dignity. Please read and sign this petition if you agree.
Correction: A previous editor's note said members of Student Voices for Palestine claimed that "no action has been taken" by the University following the report of the incident to the Office of Community Standards, Speak Up and Title IX. A student affairs spokesperson denies this claim and said the report is "being acted upon following all University protocols and procedures."
Student Voices for Palestine
Oct. 27
