In moments defined by fear and uncertainty, student journalism must remain an institution community members can turn to. The Beacon stands by that responsibility. In solidarity with our international and otherwise vulnerable student community, we are committed to granting anonymity in certain op-eds and news pieces when safety is a concern.

Our policy has long held that printing full names of sources offers the greatest transparency and builds trust with our readers. However, we recognize that anonymity is sometimes necessary. That can take many forms: The use of a first name only, a grade level, a place of residence, or no identifying details at all. Each request is considered carefully, in conversation with the reporter, an editor, and the source, to determine the safest and most responsible path forward.

Currently, we believe that this need applies especially to our international students. Across the country, students have expressed fear of speaking out due to the risk of visa revocation, lost career opportunities, or deportation. These fears are not hypothetical. Just last week, unsealed court documents confirmed that Tufts University doctoral student Rümeysa Öztürk’s visa was revoked solely because of the 2025 publication of an op-ed she co-authored in The Tufts Daily.

In light of this and further federal actions that have underscored the risks faced by international students, The Beacon reaffirms its commitment to representing the full range of voices on our campus.

As a student newspaper, we are committed to ensuring that members of our community can exercise their right to free expression without fear of retaliation. If you are an international or otherwise vulnerable student, we encourage you to reach out — with questions, concerns, tips, or to share your voice. We will work with you to balance safety and transparency.

We are always dedicated to sharing the truth, and voices matter to that truth. We will not allow anyone’s voice to be erased.