Readout of Supporting Safe and Resilient Campuses Webinar

In response to the rise of antisemitism and other forms of hate on college campuses last year, the Departments of Education, Justice, and Homeland Security today held a virtual convening to support campuses as they prepare for the return of students this fall. Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden, Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall, and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona provided remarks at the event.

During the convening, Departments shared new and updated resources designed to support campuses as they engage in planning for the safe return of students this fall. The Department of Education detailed its Free to Learn toolkit, designed to support leaders to build communities that encourage thoughtful debate and encouraged universities to develop, test, and communicate policies and procedures regarding safety and security before issues arise. The Departments of Justice and Homeland Security emphasized the need to prepare for the coming academic year, including by undertaking joint trainings and exercises among campus leadership and law enforcement and other key campus and community stakeholders. Administration leaders provided information about best practices, available trainings, technical assistance, and grant programs; this information is also available here.

The federal government is making these resources available to support campus leaders in creating a safe and secure environment in which students can learn free from fear.

The Biden-Harris Administration will continue to engage campus leadership, law enforcement and public safety officials as they seek to ensure campus safety and enable students to have a productive academic year.