Protest at UBC Okanagan courtyard—May 13, 2024
UBC values freedom of expression and respects peaceful protest. The university also recognizes that Israel and Palestine evokes complex emotions, and we recognize the concerns of many in our community.
We were also clear that any protest actions must unfold with respect for others and within the boundaries of university policy. The university is monitoring the situation and is calling on everyone to remain safe and respectful.
The safety and security of our community is the university’s foremost priority. Any actions that create a health and safety risk; constitutes hate or discrimination; impede students, faculty and staff from continuing learning, research, work and other activities on campus; or damage university property will be taken very seriously and investigated.
To the extent that inappropriate conduct violates one or more of the University’s policies, individuals may be subject to the University’s disciplinary processes or other appropriate measures under the university’s discrimination policy or student code of conduct.
During this time, campus remains open for students, faculty, staff and visitors.
The university is monitoring the situation and is continuing to liaise with law enforcement to ensure the safety of those both inside and outside the protest area.
All campus buildings, including academic spaces, recreation facilities and attractions remain open. However, some buildings may have shorter opening hours.
Summer session begins on May 13 as scheduled and UBCO graduation ceremonies will proceed as scheduled on June 6 and 7. Conferences and other events will continue as planned unless stated otherwise by the organizers.
The University is working to minimize disruptions to campus operations and remind everyone that any protest actions must be conducted with respect for others and within the boundaries of UBC policy and the law.
Throughout the year, the university has continuously reinforced the need for peaceful and respectful debate in these very challenging times, which is a tenet that must be respected by all members of the UBCO community, as well as visitors to our campus.