Stamps Statement of Support for Chinese Students, Researchers, and Faculty

While much is still unclear about the proclamation — which specifically seeks to bar entry to the U.S. by Chinese graduate students with ties to “military-influenced organizations and universities” — the University of Michigan is taking proactive measures to better understand how its implementation may impact our community.

This proclamation directly targets our Chinese colleagues, collaborators, and graduate students holding F-1 visas, J-1 visas, and researchers currently in the U.S. with a valid visa. It affects research teams and scholarship across the university.

The order is a response to curb the acquisition and diversion of U.S. technologies for the advancement of China’s military capabilities. Many, including the University of Michigan and the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design view the blanket application of this response to be arbitrary, calling instead for national security restrictions that are limited to those who pose security risks based on credible intelligence and evidence.

“I join U-M President Mark Schlissel in opposition of these restrictions that affect Chinese students who have been and continue to be valuable members of the U-M community,” said Guna Nadarajan, Dean of the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design. “Knowledge and human advancement are fueled by diverse perspectives. We affirm the positive contributions our international collaborators have on the betterment of U.S. society — and the world at large.”

Guidelines and information on the implications for the proclamation are available on the International Center website. As this situation is evolving, with definitions of execution still in progress, the International Center is the best resource to reference for up-to-date, accurate information.