MARQUETTE, MI-- Northern Michigan University President Fritz Erickson issued the following statement in response to Friday's executive order from the White House that bans immigration from Syria and prevents travel to the U.S. from seven countries:
NMU Students, Faculty and Staff,
Northern Michigan University values all students, faculty and staff – regardless of country of origin, immigration status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, political orientation or other characteristics. We demonstrate our commitment by our compassionate actions and by our civility. This is important as in the last few days the lives of some of our students, colleagues and alumni may be greatly impacted by recent changes that are being enacted by the federal government.
The executive order issued by the White House Friday barring citizens of seven nations from travel to the United States and the subsequent judge’s ruling to block some of that order have resulted in many unanswered questions. Since the order was issued, we have been assessing which Northern students, faculty and staff could be impacted and what these individuals might need in the way of support. I have instructed the Dean of Students Office to reach out to impacted students regarding this executive order and for Human Resources to serve as the starting point for faculty and staff questions. The contact information for each is listed below. In addition, listening sessions are being scheduled to address concerns. The campus community will be updated as new information becomes available.
One of the things I’m most proud of as Northern Michigan University’s president is our tradition of being a strong and caring community. The responsibility we carry to support each other, regardless of similarities and differences, has been a Northern hallmark for more than a century. Community is one of our seven core values, along with opportunity and inclusion, traits that define Northern. We also value international experiences that allow our university members to explore the world and the opportunity to bring international students, teachers and perspectives to our campus.
It’s important for students, faculty and staff to keep our supportive nature in mind in light of recent events, which have left many in our university community feeling unsettled. Remaining committed to our mission, core values and longstanding NMU policies will help us navigate current and future changes that impact Northern community members and NMU as an institution. Please know that our university cares and that we are ready to protect and assist all community members.
Thank you for keeping Northern a peaceful, respectful and caring campus that is welcoming to all.
Sincerely,
Fritz Erickson, President
