Dear Sagehens,
Last night, a memorial on our campus to honor the victims of Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel was disrupted by four masked and disguised individuals who burst through a locked fire door, shouting. While we have not yet identified the individuals, we are examining video footage taken during the event, as well as security footage to determine how access could have been gained. We are also reviewing our security protocols for on-campus events.
Security personnel stationed outside were the first to respond. We arrived later and spoke to attendees. By that time, the disruption had ended. We can confirm that attendees are physically safe.
We have seen videos of the incident and they are shocking and deeply disturbing.
It is both outrageous and cruel to interrupt a space where members of our community come together to mourn. Antisemitic hate cannot be tolerated here. Our community is better than this.
We are conducting a full investigation. To aid this investigation, we are asking community members to send any related photos or videos to oct15disruption@pomona.edu.
If the individuals involved are connected to Pomona, we will pursue every appropriate disciplinary action. If the individuals are not connected to Pomona, we will refer them to the appropriate entity.
While this event was most deeply painful, and even frightening, for those present last night, it should shake our community that anyone would act so despicably on our campus.
For students seeking in-person connections today, we recommend you reach out to Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services (MCAPS), or McAlister Center for Religious and Spiritual Life. The 5Cs also offer TimelyCare for online and 24-hour access. If you need additional support, you are always welcome to contact your class dean.
We know Pomona. And we know Pomona stands together in rejecting actions that threaten the core values of our College.
Sincerely,
G. Gabrielle Starr, President
Avis Hinkson, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students