Manuel Bonder, a spokesperson for Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, issued a statement urging University leaders to prioritize student safety amidst ongoing events on Penn’s campus. The statement comes amidst a pro-Palestinian encampment on College Green, now in its second day.
Bonder emphasized that the University of Pennsylvania had publicly declared student safety as its top priority and committed to consequences for actions or words violating university policies or contributing to a hostile environment on campus.
Furthermore, Bonder stressed Governor Shapiro’s stance on the importance of preventing antisemitism while upholding the principles of free expression. Shapiro asserts that while peaceful protests are a right, they must adhere to the law and university policies to ensure student safety.
Shapiro’s comments echo his recent criticism of universities nationwide for failing to adequately protect their students. He emphasized the responsibility of local leadership to enforce the law in such situations.
In December 2023, Governor Shapiro played a significant role in calling for the resignation of former Penn President Liz Magill.