Following the recent executive order from the President of the United States banning refugees and people from seven Muslim countries from entering the United States, we believe that the Student Government Association of Furman University should make a statement emphasizing commitment and dedication to ensuring that every member of the Furman student body feels protected, supported, and able to reach their full potential at Furman University.

In accordance with SGA’s mission “to be a proactive governing body that represents Furman’s diverse student population,” it is expected that SGA responds to political actions that create feelings of insecurity and exclusion for members of the student body. Both President Elizabeth Davis and the Student Diversity Council have made public comments demonstrating commitment to ensure safety and security for all members of the Furman community.

We understand that SGA must remain non-partisan, and we do not expect SGA to take a specific political stance, endorse, or reprimand elected officials. The Furman University student body represents a wide array of political beliefs, and this can be an asset to our community. However, in the event of federal political actions that personally affect members of your own student body, we feel that it is necessary to release a public statement emphasizing SGA’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and representation of all members of the student body.

As stated in the vision statement in the SGA constitution, “SGA will propose solutions that address broad student problems.” The executive order personally affects many members of the Furman student body, faculty, and staff. We are proud to be members of the Furman University student body, and we hope that SGA will demonstrate commitment to representation of all students in light if the recent executive order. Despite the temporary hold on the travel ban due to the 9th district federal court of appeals’ recent ruling, the president of the United States remains persistent and members of our Furman community remain fearful for their safety, their futures, and their pursuit of a Furman education.

A “Students for Solidarity” Rally will be held on Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 on the steps of the library from 5:00-6:00pm. This event is organized by a group of concerned students in partnership with Furman University Student Diversity Council and Furman University National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. The event has been approved by Furman University Student Life and Campus Police. Students and faculty will share opinions and personal anecdotes related to the travel ban. We would like to extend an invitation to all members of the Student Government Association. If a statement is produced by the time of the rally, we would like to invite a representative from SGA to read the statement at the event.

Thank you for your time and attention. Furman stands together.