In a public statement released today (Sept. 4, 2024), President Kristine Dillon reaffirms Whittier College’s and her own commitment to academic freedom, open and respectful dialogue, and the fight against antisemitism and all forms of hate.
At Whittier College, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment that stands united against antisemitism and all forms of hate. This commitment is foundational to our approach to education and community engagement. We understand that discussions about the Middle East crisis evoke strong emotions and diverse opinions, on campus and within our close-knit Poet community. Such topics are inherently complex and often deeply personal, which is why we strive to create an environment where all voices are heard and where discussions are conducted with the highest degree of sensitivity and respect.
Building on this commitment to respectful dialogue, we believe in the educational value of critically engaging with a wide range of perspectives. The College does not endorse any specific viewpoints, including those reflected in a course currently being taught as a 1-unit special topics discussion for credit/no-credit with fewer than 10 students enrolled. Our faculty expect courses to be thoughtfully designed, fostering open dialogue and encouraging critical thinking, rather than promoting any particular political stance.
In line with these values, we are equally dedicated to upholding academic freedom on a content-neutral basis while standing firmly against antisemitism and all forms of hate. My goal, along with that of my colleagues, is to create a space where diverse ideas are thoughtfully and respectfully discussed, providing students with opportunities to critically engage with various perspectives and develop their own informed opinions. Our faculty serve as scholarly guides, fostering critical thinking throughout this journey.
True to our cherished history, this year we will continue to offer a range of classes, events, and discussions on significant global and social issues. These initiatives are aimed at providing our community with opportunities to learn from a broad spectrum of viewpoints, all grounded in factual and historical context.
I want to be abundantly clear: Whittier College stands united against all forms of hate. We are steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive campus for everyone. Aligned with our Quaker values, we are dedicated to providing a balanced educational experience that upholds our core principles of inclusivity, respect and academic inquiry — principles fundamental to nurturing intellectually curious and open-minded global citizens.
