November 21, 2016
Dear Members of the Harvard Community,
Last week, President Faust sent a message to the Harvard community reflecting on the recent presidential election and noting the “escalating numbers of cruel and frightening incidents – around the country, including on college campuses” that have recently occurred. She called on all of us to work together to foster an environment where members of our community can “live in safety and dignity.”
Given this context, I write today to underscore that the HUPD stands ready to assist any member of the Harvard community who experiences a bias-related incident. Any acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes designed to infringe upon a person's civil rights will be treated seriously and given the highest priority. Where harassment or hate crimes are found to have occurred, the HUPD will act to stop the harassment or criminal behavior, prevent its recurrence, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The HUPD will also refer individuals who feel that they are in need of emotional support to the appropriate resource.
If you feel that you have been the victim of a bias-related incident, hate crime, or harassment please contact the HUPD immediately at 617-495-1212 to report the incident. If you do not want to report the incident to the HUPD directly, please contact a University official such as a dean, a human resource director, a residential or housing staff member who can assist you. Alternatively, community members can report criminal or suspicious activity anonymously either by calling a twenty-four hour automated voice mail system at 617-496-2700 or by reporting online at http://www.hupd.harvard.edu/anonymous-reporting.
Over the past several days, the question has also been asked whether the HUPD inquires about the immigration status of faculty, students or staff or is involved in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. In both cases, the answer is no. It is not the jurisdiction, responsibility, or practice of the HUPD to police the immigration status of members of our community and, consistent with its long-standing policy and practice, the Department will not do so.
The Harvard University Police Department is committed to providing a safe and secure campus for all members of our community. If you feel that you have been the victim of a crime or if you ever feel unsafe while on campus, please contact us immediately so we can assist you.
Sincerely,
Francis D. Riley
Chief of Police