As part of ongoing efforts to improve transparency, accessibility and understanding of its policies, UC Merced invites comments on the revised UC Merced Interim Policy on Expressive Activities and Assembly: Protests, Demonstrations, Non-University Speakers and Signage on Campus and in University Facilities.
UC Merced is committed to upholding free speech and fostering an inclusive community where all views can be expressed. The university is also committed to maintaining an environment that adheres to the policies and laws that keep our campus communities safe and functional.
This policy is designed to protect and promote the rights of ALL members of the university community, to prevent interference with university functions or activities and to protect university facilities. The policy aims to assure compliance with all pertinent laws and other applicable University policies and spell out consequences for behaviors and activities that violate the law or University policies that are in place to protect the entire community.
Updates align with mandatory directives issued by the UC Office of the President and include:
- Mandatory revisions required by California State Senate Bill 108, SEC. 219, 34 implemented under UC Merced’s Campus Climate Initiative.
- Technical updates to owner, contact information, and resources.
- Clarifications around disruptions of a university activity, proximity of activities, signage, unauthorized structures, and consequences.
- Moved Protest Oversight Group (POG) membership/roles & responsibilities to Appendix.
This interim policy is effective immediately and applies to all members of the UC Merced community and all areas of university operations, programs, and facilities, including off-campus locations where university programs and business are conducted.
The interim policy is posted on the UC Merced Policies Website | Interim UCM Policy on Expressive Activities.
Comments or questions about this policy may be submitted to the UC Merced Policy Office by December 23, 2024 through this anonymous survey.
