What happened:
On the evening of October 15, three students (Student Group A) were attempting to remove and add posters around White Plaza when they began to be followed by other students (Student Group B). Two of the students from Student Group A reported being shoved by one of the students from Student Group B. The two students from Student Group A identify as part of the Arab, Muslim, and/or Palestinian communities.
Assault and harassment based on protected identities is antithetical to Stanford’s values and is a misdemeanor in the state of California. More specifically, Stanford considers anti-Arab and islamophobic acts to be abhorrent. This incident is being investigated by the Department of Public Safety as a crime motivated by hate.
What is being done:
Updated as of 10/17/2023
This incident has been reported to the Department of Public Safety, which is currently investigating. The Jeanne Clery Act and CA Education Code 67380 require the University to record and publish the number of hate incidents occurring on campus. Additionally, assaulting another based on a perception of their disability, gender, nationality, race, ethnicity, or religion is considered a civil rights violation under CA Penal Code 422.6.
Because this incident included an alleged assault and an alleged battery, the person(s) who engaged in the conduct could be subject to legal and disciplinary action.
Multiple Protected Identity Harm (PIH) reports were filed by the involved students.
The Markaz staff are aware of the incident and can serve as support systems for students.
What to do:
- If you have any information that may assist with this investigation, please call DPS at (650) 329-2413 (24/7) and ask to speak with a deputy.
- The Markaz is here to help is here to help. Email the staff (the-markaz@stanford.edu) with any questions or concerns or use the Muslim Mental Initiative (MMHI) to book an appointment to speak with a counselor.
- The Office of Religious Life, including the ORSL Deans can be contacted for support, as well.
- Students needing assistance are invited to reach out to these mental health resources and faculty/staff can reach out to the Faculty Staff Help Center.
- If you experience bias or discrimination, please file a Protected Identity Harm report.
