The flagpole at the entrance to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth has a new addition this week, albeit temporarily: The Black Lives Matter flag.

In a statement issued to the campus community, Interim Chancellor Randy Helm announced that the Black Lives Matter flag would fly on the university’s flagpole from December 12 to 16. It was made possible through a policy change that allows members of the campus community to request flags for specific causes and organizations to fly on campus, which was approved on October 1.

The university’s Council on Diversity and Inclusion, made up of staff members and students, put in the request to fly the Black Lives Matter flag. Although the council’s vote was not unanimous, Helm approved the request.

Helm explained in a written statement that he believes the flag is not an endorsement of a particular political agenda or platform of any outside organization and is not an endorsement of any anti-police or anti-Semitic beliefs, but rather a way to raise awareness and show support for African American lives.

“It is a statement that emphasizes the extent to which racial prejudice and violence have disproportionately affected African Americans,” Helm said. “In the aftermath of the recent presidential election, our nation has seen a sharp increase in hate crimes and violence against people of color.”

Helm added that the goal of adding the flag is to promote discussion among the community.

“It is my sincere hope that this action will encourage civil and respectful dialogue at a time of deep divisions in our country,” Helm said in his statement. “This symbolic gesture will not change anything unless we listen to each other and engage in thoughtful conversations with our colleagues, our family, friends, and others.”