Dear UCSF Community,

I am writing to address a deeply concerning matter that has recently come to light: antisemitic graffiti was discovered on two signs near our Precision Cancer Medicine Building at Mission Bay. These reprehensible acts targeted our Jewish faculty, clinicians, staff, learners, and patients, and used racist language to invoke the traumatic history of the Holocaust. We condemn this hate without exception.

Antisemitism has no place at UCSF. It stands in stark contrast to our fundamental belief in accepting and respecting all people regardless of their identity, beliefs, and background. Hate aimed at any group within our UCSF community must be seen for what it is, an attack on all of us and the values that bring us together in service of others.

The UCSF Police Department is actively investigating these incidents, reviewing video footage and other evidence to identify the responsible individual. I urge anyone who has information to come forward and report it via the UCSF Police Department website or at 415-476-1414.

For members of our Jewish community and others who would benefit from UCSF’s support services, I encourage you to make use of the resources compiled by the Office of Diversity and Outreach.

As health sciences professionals, we embrace free speech and academic freedom, understanding that we also share a collective responsibility to guard against attempts to intimidate or marginalize others. Let us continue to work together to establish an environment where every individual—irrespective of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or background—feels welcome, respected, and safe.

Sincerely,

Sam Hawgood, MBBS
Chancellor
Arthur and Toni Rembe Rock Distinguished Professor