Schools
SJSU President Denounces Anti-immigrant Fliers
The top-level response was made after anti-immigrant fliers showed up on campus about a week ago declaring 'Nationalism not Globalism.'
SAN JOSE, CA — San Jose State University's president denounced white supremacy and hate speech Tuesday after racist, anti-immigrant fliers appeared at the college campus earlier this month.
A white supremacist group took credit on social media for the fliers, which appeared on campus on Aug. 12 and bore the messages "Nationalism not Globalism" and "Diversity Destroys Nations." The coded language is used by the far-right to attack Jewish people and minorities as disloyal to the United States.
University spokeswoman Robin McElhatton said SJSU police are conducting an ongoing investigation, but officers determined last week that there was no immediate threat. She said the fliers alone do not constitute a hate crime, and police are not pursuing any criminal charges, but the materials were removed for violating a "Time, Place and Manner" First Amendment policy throughout the California State University system.
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The investigation could become criminal in nature if officers find any evidence of an imminent threat. President Mary Papazian responded in a statement one day before the fall semester began on Wednesday. She said the materials were immediately removed, and while the university supports free speech, it does not tolerate discrimination.
"Even as we engage in dialogue and review our relevant policies and practices, San Jose State University also will denounce the actions of white supremacist and white nationalist hate groups," Papazian said, adding that SJSU will not allow "social violence" based on race, ethnicity,
immigration status, religion and other identities.
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In September 2016, swastikas and anti-Semitic language were found in dorms on the SJSU campus. Papazian said Tuesday that hate-related incidents have become "too familiar" and similar fliers were found at other CSU campuses.
The university has organized programming throughout the year to affirm inclusion, equity and respect.
"San Jose State University is proud to be one of the most diverse campus communities in the nation," Papazian said. "As we start the new semester, please join with me in affirming our shared values of inclusion, equity, fairness, acceptance and respect."
—Bay City News