April 11, 2024

Dear Members of the Drexel Community,

Like many of you, I was horrified to learn that a joyous Eid al-Fitr celebration near Clara Muhammad Square to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan was tragically and inexplicably interrupted by gun violence that injured three people yesterday afternoon.

Our thoughts are with our neighbors at the Philadelphia Masjid in Parkside and all those who have been shaken by this senseless act. A number of our students who are part of the Clara Muhammad community are thankfully safe.

While there were no fatalities reported, this is yet another reminder of the violence so many in our city are exposed to on a daily basis, and the collective trauma so many are coping with as a result. What should have been a day of celebration for our Muslim community was instead marked by violence. We can and must do better. Our communities of faith should be allowed to gather and worship in peace and safety.

Hate and violence have no place in our community. Words alone will not ease the pain inflicted on our neighbors and members of our Muslim community, but I have faith in the steadfast care and support our community provides to lift each other up even during the darkest of times.

We know that experiencing or witnessing gun violence has a direct impact on mental well-being. Our Student Counseling Center (counsel@drexel.edu) and Employee Assistance Program (888.881.5462) are always available and have many resources to help us cope with difficult experiences. Drexel's Office of Spiritual and Religious Life is also available to all members of the University community: contact information is available on the Student Life website.

Please do not hesitate to request an escort if you feel that you need one. Drexel Public Safety security officers provide walking escorts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and may be reached by calling 215.895.2222.

Sincerely,

John Fry
President