We are profoundly enraged by the unjust suspension of Elom Tettey-Tamaklo from his position as a first-year proctor at Harvard University. Elom was suspended for expressing his views on Palestine; an act that is not only protected under the First Amendment but also fundamental to any thriving academic institution.

As a community deeply invested in the principles of academic freedom and free expression, Harvard is setting a dangerous, ugly precedent: free speech ends when Palestine begins. This is particularly concerning given that universities are supposed to be bastions of free thought and intellectual exploration. The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) has long championed academic freedom, stating that "institutions of higher education are conducted for the common good... [which] depends upon the free search for truth and its free exposition" (1940 Statement).

The characterization of Mr. Tettey-Tamaklo as a "gang leader" by a senior university official further exacerbates this issue, demonstrating an alarming level of bias and prejudice within an institution renowned globally for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

We urge Harvard University to uphold its commitment to these values by reinstating Mr. Tettey-Tamaklo immediately and issuing an apology for their actions against him. By doing so, they can send out a strong message about their dedication towards protecting students' right to express their opinions freely without fear or prejudice.

Please join us in standing up against this injustice by signing this petition today!