Miami's Association of University Professors (AAUP) published a statement of support for members of the Miami community who are experiencing "increased vulnerability." The statement, which the organization released on Friday, March 3, names Middle Eastern, Latinx, Jewish and transgender students and faculty as examples.
"In the wake of recent presidential orders concerning immigration and transgender rights, and as part of its advocacy for the educational mission of the university, Miami AAUP Advocacy Chapter affirms its unequivocal support for the right of all members of the Miami community to have space and time to pursue learning in safety and with full freedom of movement," the statement reads.
According to a post published along with the official statement, the release of the statement followed a "galvanizing and moving" chapter meeting on Feb. 15 when Ancilleno Lewis, the leader of the student organization Graduate Students from All Nations, spoke to the members about recent "hate-related" activity that has occurred in the community.
The official statement addresses and condemns any discriminating words or actions targeted at members of the Miami community.
"We condemn acts and words that denigrate and/or discriminate against members of our community on the basis of national origin, religion, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity," it reads.
The meeting also included a discussion about how to create a more welcoming atmosphere for international or undocumented students and faculty. Members were encouraged to think beyond measures of safety and to also be conscious when planning social or other events that individuals are not unintentionally being excluded from these activities.
"It's clear that the times are calling on all of us to work harder to protect our students and faculty and to create an atmosphere in which all of us can learn and thrive," the post says.
The statement also serves as a call to action to the Miami community.
"We call on all parts of the community, including Miami leadership, to commit to doing everything in their power to affirm and protect the human and civil rights of members of the Miami community," it reads.
The full statement can be found on the Miami AAUP website.
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