Chancellor Issues Message Denouncing Actions of Prejudice and Intimidation

Chancellor Sam Hawgood, MBBS, on Monday addressed the UC San Francisco community regarding recent incidents of discrimination and intimidation.

Here is a transcript of his video message:

Across America we have heard about an alarming wave of recent incidents of prejudice because of the many differences amongst us, including political beliefs.

In the past week, several members of our community also have reported that they have experienced disturbing and disrespectful incidents here on campus.  

So let me be clear: Discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated at UCSF. 

My leadership team and I strongly denounce these actions, as they go against our core mission of advancing the health and wellbeing of humanity and our PRIDE values of professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence.

These actions also defy our strongly held Principles of Community, which commit us all to the highest standards of civility and decency. 

As a public university, we fully defend everyone’s First Amendment rights to freedom of speech. However, if comments or actions cross the line into threats against and intimidation of others due to race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or other protected characteristics, they are violations of University policy and, in some circumstances, may violate laws against hate crimes. 

Hate has no place at UCSF.  

We will ensure that any such incidents are immediately investigated and are dealt with according to law and policy.

I urge all of you to do your part right here in our community to promote diversity, respect and inclusion. Please support one another, be an ally to those who are feeling vulnerable and afraid.

When you see something that is hurtful or wrong, please speak up and stand up in defense of fairness and kindness. Your inaction can be interpreted as acceptance or apathy to victims and our community.

I urge that we come together as a community to build on our collective strengths through our unity and diversity, to ensure that everyone, no matter who they are, feels safe, secure and supported at UCSF.