Chapman needs to reiterate its commitment to diversity and inclusion given the attention to Eastman's Newsweek article. Although the publication initially defended the article, Editors have since apologized for its role in reigniting racist birtherism by falsely claiming Kamala Harris is ineligible for the (Vice) Presidency. 

In response we are collecting signatures of Chapman University Faculty to send to the administration in agreement with this statement:

We, these assembled members of the Chapman faculty, condemn Professor Eastman’s remarks on Kamala Harris’ citizenship as poorly argued, inaccurate, and racist. Prof. Eastman's approach, implicitly questioning the citizenship status of a fellow American, while holding an endowed professorship, a place of honor, does not reflect who Chapman says we are and what the University claims to be doing to realize a more inclusive community.

Just as Newsweek has issued an apology for publishing this piece, we ask that Chapman’s administration make a statement about our university’s values relating to diversity and inclusion, and reaffirm its commitment to moving forward with initiatives and leadership on these issues at Chapman.

Let us be clear: we do not seek to prohibit Professor John Eastman from publishing his works, as the academy is founded on free speech. However, since Chapman University and the endowed professorship has been referenced by numerous news outlets, political leaders, alumni, and other and members of the Chapman family it is incumbent on the administration to reiterate its commitment to an environment that welcomes all students.