Protocol for the Potential Deployment of Law Enforcement to Manage Campus Demonstrations
Introduction
The Division of Campus Life developed this protocol to address the recommendations of the After-Action Review. It highlights the need for clear guidelines for responding to campus demonstrations and ensuring the safety of all community members.
The protocol is framed by the University’s Demonstration, Chalking and Posting Policy and outlines a flexible approach to managing campus demonstrations. It was developed by a diverse collection of operational leaders and reviewed by key governance groups on campus.
The protocol was developed using a robust set of scenarios and the following principles:
- De-escalation and adherence to policies through the lowest means of intervention.
- Consistent communication with demonstrators to understand their objectives.
- Informing individuals about the consequences of their actions.
- Prioritizing community safety.
- Maintaining consistency in process and policy enforcement.
- Balancing free expression with the realities of a residential, research university.
The goal of this protocol is to de-escalate potential disruptions while upholding the rights of free expression and maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for all members of the campus community.