Support the Pitt Students: Template letter to the University of Pittsburgh, ensure safety of protesters.

As someone who values the well-being and safety of students at your institution, I have heard from advocates for Palestine how they feel marginalized and unsupported by Pittsburgh’s higher educational institutions, including yours. There are worrying reports of student activists being targeted with doxxing and threats, which undermine their ability to engage in meaningful dialogue and activism.

It is disheartening to see that many area colleges have not adequately supported these students against anti-Muslim hate and unjust attacks on their integrity. Instead of viewing pro-Palestinian activism as a problem, I urge you and your administration to approach this with empathy and a commitment to upholding students’ rights to free expression and assembly.

As the semester draws to a close, I am deeply troubled by reports of students facing disciplinary action for their activism. Colleges should not suppress students’ First Amendment rights or use disciplinary measures to silence dissent.

I believe that universities have a responsibility to engage with students advocating for peace and justice, particularly in the face of ongoing atrocities in Palestine. We must foster an environment where diverse perspectives are respected, and where students are encouraged to hold institutions accountable for complicity in violence.

Threats, securitization of campuses, and harassment of students must not be tolerated. As a leader of a respected higher educational institution, I urge you to support these students’ right to express themselves and organize peacefully.

Our community stands with these courageous voices, and I hope that you will take the necessary steps to ensure that all students feel valued and safe on your campus.

Thank you for considering my concerns.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]