The Luso-American Development Foundation (FLAD), a partner of Brown University in the United States, through its support to the Department of Portuguese and Brazilian Studies and the Study in Portugal Network program, expresses its solidarity with the entire Brown community, following this weekend’s terrorist attack.

Universities should be spaces for free thought, constructive debate and peaceful coexistence, never scenarios of intimidation or aggression.

In this difficult time, FLAD wants to affirm its proximity to students, faculty, researchers, and collaborators at Brown University, as well as to all those affected by these events, especially the vast Portuguese-descendant community in Rhode Island. We reiterate the importance that the circumstances are fully clarified by the competent authorities and that the principles of the rule of law prevail.

As an institution dedicated to strengthening academic, scientific and cultural relations between Portugal and the United States, FLAD reaffirms its commitment to the promotion of university cooperation based on safety, inclusion and mutual respect.

We believe that only through dialogue, tolerance and knowledge is it possible to respond to moments of tension and build stronger and more resilient academic communities.