Campus Encampment Update
Dear DU community,
It is with deepened concern that we share information on the recent developments surrounding the campus encampment. Despite our efforts to promote free expression, engage in listening, and maintain safety, the situation has continued with intentional disregard for University policy and a troubling increase in reports of unacceptable behavior, including antisemitism and disruption.
In offering to meet with the leaders of the encampment as well as those participating in counter protests on Friday, those involved in counter protests accepted the invitation and we met with them on Friday to hear their concerns and questions. It was a productive meeting, and we are offering our continued support of their well-being on campus. Yesterday, leaders of the encampment also accepted our invitation and we met with them today to hear their concerns and questions.
Throughout the weekend, we have seen various instances of noncompliance from encampment participants, including refusal to show University-issued ID upon request. We have provided several opportunities for encampment participants to show ID, yet they have only been compliant with this request on one occasion.
As we’ve previously stated, only current DU students, faculty and staff are permitted to participate in overnight protests or encampments on campus. Requiring a visual check of University IDs enables us to better support DU community voices while promoting a safe environment for both participants and all students, faculty and staff. Visual ID checks are not being used for punitive measures.
Our ability to maintain campus safety is dependent upon everyone's compliance with University policy. As a reminder, noncompliance will continue to result in immediate referral to Student Rights and Responsibilities or the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX, as appropriate, for thorough review and appropriate action, which can include interim suspension as warranted.
Finally, we feel it is important to correct a few misperceptions. At this time, the University:
| • | has not threatened to have any students arrested; |
| • | has not threatened to “sweep” the camp, nor used this term in any setting; |
| • | has been proactive, beginning last week, in reaching out to student organizers to try and arrange in-person discussions. |
As we head into a new week, we remain dedicated to maintaining a safe, respectful environment for all students, faculty and staff. At the end of the day, we have a responsibility to thousands of students who are diligently studying and readying themselves for the end of the term. While we have made great efforts and utilized vast University resources to maintain our support of free expression, it requires reciprocal partnership, and we hope to see that renewed by the encampment participants quickly.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Haefner, Chancellor
Mary Clark, Provost
Todd Adams, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs