Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) Chancellor Francisco Rodriguez released a written statement on his Twitter and in an email to students on Oct. 28 to address and condemn recent antisemitic remarks made by Kanye West.
“On behalf of the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees and District Administration, we denounce the discriminatory remarks made by Kanye West,” Rodriguez wrote. “Incidents or language with clear intentions to divide and discriminate have no place and are not welcomed here at LACCD.”
LACCD Board President Andra Hoffman emphasized the importance for educators at every level to inform and engage students, faculty and staff about antisemitism and any kind of racism and prejudice.
Board of Trustees President Gabriel Buelna said everyone has the First Amendment right to participate in the community without having to worry about being harassed or discriminated against.
“All individuals within our community have the right to participate in activities free from discrimination, harassment and retaliation,” Buelna said.
Buelna said that all college and district leaders must work to proactively make a safe space for everyone in the event that an individual or a group of people feels they are being silenced through intimidation or interference.
Rodriguez wrote that LACCD will continue to be attentive to behaviors and speech that attempt to separate the community.
West, now known as Ye, was suspended again from Instagram on Nov. 1 after targeting Jews in a post.
Adidas, Gap, Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and Balenciaga are some of the companies named that have ended their partnerships with Ye over his remarks.
