Supporting Our Community

Dear Drexel Students and Colleagues,

This week marks the first anniversary of Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack on Israel and the ensuing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. As yesterday’s Public Safety advisory noted, a Drexel-unaffiliated demonstration and march planned to begin today at 2 p.m. at Drexel Square Park across from 30th Street Station could cause temporary disruptions to vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Market Street.  

University-authorized gatherings and unauthorized outside demonstrations will be taking place throughout the week. In preparation, there will be an increased visible presence of Drexel Police and Public Safety officers to protect campus spaces and facilities and to ensure the safety both of participants who are exercising their rights to free speech and of passersby alike.

University administrators will also be on hand to monitor compliance with our Codes of Conduct, and federal laws that prohibit unlawful discrimination, harassment, targeting or intimidation based on race, national origin or shared ancestry, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected class.

For additional information related to the university's commitment to free speech, expression, and expectations for maintaining a safe environment for all, see our Activism Guidelines.

We recognize that emotions of fear, anger, and anguish will be running high across our Drexel community this week. We offer support through resources provided by our Counseling Center, Employee Assistance Program and the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life. We will continue to maintain a safe and supportive environment of respect for all our students, faculty and professional staff.

Sincerely,

Denis P. O’Brien
Interim President