June 6, 2025
To the Members of the Gonzaga Community,
This past weekend, two individuals not affiliated with Gonzaga University were observed chalking political messages on the pavement near the northwest entrance to the Hemmingson Center. When questioned by Campus Security and Public Safety (CSPS) officers, the individuals also admitted to having removed the flag of Israel from the international flag display in the Hemmingson Center rotunda. They stated their actions were in protest of what they believed to be the University’s connections to arms manufacturers involved in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The unauthorized removal of the flag constitutes an act of vandalism and is a violation of our campus conduct standards. It may also constitute a violation of our institutional commitment to creating a context free from discrimination. CSPS promptly trespassed the individuals from campus and reported the incident to the Spokane Police Department, with whom we are fully cooperating as the investigation proceeds.
This incident reminds us that cultural, national, and religious differences must never be justification for physical or emotional aggression or symbolic harm. We have a shared responsibility to stand against acts that attempt to divide or demean. Even in times of disagreement or difficulty, our Ignatian tradition invites us to engage differences with humility and compassion as we seek to find God in all things.
I appreciate the awareness of our GUEST employee who reported this incident and the quick and professional response of our CSPS officers. As always, we encourage the practice of “see something, say something,” by contacting Campus Security and Public Safety at x2222 or the Spokane Police Department at 911.
I want to thank our GU community for your commitment to an inclusive and increasingly multicultural community grounded in respect. Let us always strive to care for one another with compassion, support each person’s dignity and growth, and foster an inclusive environment where all feel seen, heard, and valued.
Sincerely and in unity,
Robin Kelley, Ph.D.
Chief Diversity Officer