President Trump’s Executive Order and BU
January 29, 2017
To Members of the Boston University Community:
As you have heard, the President of the United States has issued an Executive Order that impacts the issuance of visas and immediately suspends the entry into the United States by individuals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen for 90 days.
We believe this Executive Order is fundamentally inconsistent with the values that are the bedrock of Boston University and, indeed, of our pluralistic, welcoming society. The Executive Order diminishes our nation as a beacon for freedom and opportunity. As an academic community, we must stand together to support each other at this time of uncertainty and use a clear voice to affirm our principles and voice our deep concern.
Because of our concern about how this Executive Order will affect members of our community, the International Students & Scholars Office, ISSO, has been reaching out to all students, scholars, and faculty who we believe may be directly affected. Any international student or scholar who has questions or concerns should contact the ISSO.
Importantly, for those from the countries listed above, regardless of one’s non-immigrant classification, we advise against travel outside of the United States at this time, as it places one at risk of not being readmitted to the US.
Global Programs is monitoring emerging developments closely and will update our community on any changes in laws and practices that relate to international students and scholars as well as undocumented students. This week, Global Programs, in partnership with the Dean of Students office, will be holding a town meeting at which ISSO, other University staff, and additional immigration experts will be present to answer questions from our community. Please watch for an announcement of the time and place at BU Today.
The situation is extremely fluid, as is clear from the restraining order issued by Boston federal court early Sunday morning, which halts certain actions of the Executive Order for 7 days. We will keep the community apprised of further federal actions that impact our students, faculty, and staff.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Brown, President
Jean Morrison, University Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Willis G. Wang, Vice President and Associate Provost for Global Programs