As stated yesterday and throughout the year, UBC values freedom of expression and respects peaceful protest. The university also recognizes that the violence in Israel and Palestine evokes complex emotions and we recognize the concerns and suffering 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 in MacInnes Field and is calling on everyone to remain safe and respectful.
Already there are concerning actions at the site. These include the removal of items (fencing, road barricades) from nearby construction sites and University property, the removal of furnishings from nearby University buildings, minor damage to the buildings and furnishings, and possibly to the turf field, the erection of barricades and the construction of cooking facilities on UBC property, as well as the removal and possible theft of a Canadian flag from a UBC flag pole. There is also concern that the site is barring members of the university community from enjoying the site. All of these actions are counter to UBC policies.
The university also is aware that several participants at the protest are not UBC community members.
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.
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 UBC community, as well as visitors to our campus.