by anonymous, April 4, 2025, 13:10 ///
What follows is a set of policies changed following the campus activism of 2024, announced by the University of Chicago this past July. We are sharing this now as figures on campus call for the University to stand up for free-expression in the face of increased repression of anti-genocide protests. But we know that UChicago does not care. While the University may posture about free-expression, the University has launched a multi-year assault on the expression of the Pro-Palestine student movement. When you hear a professor or administrator saying that the University will stand up for the speech of students, you need to know that the University administration will not save us from repression.
1. “Policies Encouraging Non-Disruptive Events on Campus
The revised policy clarifies that:
The erection or construction of any structure on campus (including shelters, tents, fencing, etc.) requires advance written approval of the director of the Student Centers (or designee).
Staying overnight in outdoor structures on campus or in non-residential campus buildings is not permitted.
Amplified sound is permissible on University property during certain times only, and not inside campus buildings.”
2. “For example, postings should not be affixed to windows, doors, building columns, structural supports, woodwork, flag poles, light poles, or fencing, and the use of glue, packing/shipping tape, and stickers is not permitted on any outside surface or campus building.”
3. “Organizations and other groups of students organizing a protest or demonstration are encouraged to make advance arrangements with the staff of UChicago Student Centers and/or their appropriate Recognized Student Organization (RSO) Advisor. Advance notification enables the University to help ensure that the event takes place in a constructive and peaceable manner.”
4. “In addition, the University may reasonably regulate the time, place, and manner of expression to ensure that it does not disrupt the ordinary activities of the University.”
5. “University officials will require protestors or demonstrators to promptly leave at the time of building closure.”
6. “…if the University deems the use of placards, banners, or signs to be dangerous or impede the participation of others, University officials will require the individuals carrying the placards, banners, or signs to move to a different location or remove their materials. “
7. “…a request to hold a protest or demonstration should be submitted at least 48 hours before the start of the event to ensure its successful execution.”
8. “According to the policy, many outdoor areas and a few buildings on campus are, in a general sense and during normal business hours, “open to the public.” However, the entire campus and all University-owned buildings are private property. “
further information:
https://csl.uchicago.edu/resources/policies-and-disclosures/free-expression-resources/, https://studentmanual.uchicago.edu/student-life-conduct/protests-and-demonstrations-policy/, https://studentmanual.uchicago.edu/university-policies/civil-behavior-in-a-university-setting/
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