A Message from OISS Regarding Recent Events

Dear International Student & Scholar Community,

The past few months have been a time of tremendous challenge as we have faced the COVID-19 pandemic, border and embassy closures, lack of international flights, concerns about racial discrimination and xenophobia because of COVID-19, uncertainty about the future of OPT and other major immigration changes. All of us in the OISS know how stressful and difficult this moment has been.

In the midst of these challenges, people in the US and around the world are protesting oppression and police violence directed toward black people and people of color. We have received questions from some international students about the protests.

The OISS stands with the rest of Tulane against all forms of racism and oppression.  All of us suffer when our society is not equal. In the words of Brazilian scholar Paulo Freire “No one can be authentically human while he prevents others from being so.” We cannot return to the normal that existed before. As we think about how to move forward, we must acknowledge the global history of colonialism and slavery and how it continues to negatively impact people around the world to this day.

OISS is committed to working with the international community and others at Tulane to create a more equitable university. We invite you to join us in that process. One way you can share your voice is by participating in our International Student Advisory Board (ISAB). We are currently recruiting for next year’s ISAB and you can apply here.

Some of you may have questions or concerns related to current events and the protests. We encourage you to review the statement and resources prepared by The Carolyn Barber Pierre Center for Intercultural Life and the Center for Academic Equity. Some of the educational resources can help provide context for understanding race relations in the US.

If you decide that you would like to attend or participate in protests, it is important that you understand your rights as well as the risks. Protest and free speech rights are protected by the US Constitution. However, non-citizens have several factors to consider when deciding whether to participate in a protest. In addition to considering the possible immigration-related implications, international students and scholars are encouraged to consider how their actions could be interpreted in their home country and what, if any, consequences may result if they return home. Please review this website for more information.

To report a concern or incident, please visit Tulane Concerns. If you are feeling impacted in any way or need support, please contact the Tulane Dean of Student’s Office at 504-314-2160. After hours or on the weekend you can contact the Student Affairs Professional On-Call at 504-920-9900.

As always, OISS is here for you. You can make an appointment with an advisor online or reach out any time at oiss@tulane.edu.

Kristy Magner
Director, Office of International Students and Scholars
Newcomb-Tulane College I Tulane University
6901 Willow St
504.865.5208 I kmagner1@tulane.edu
oiss.tulane.edu/oiss
college.tulane.edu