Dear Campus Community,

As the academic year approaches, we would like to reaffirm our shared commitment to the Principles of Community—and to remind all students and employees of their rights and responsibilities regarding free expression on our campus.

Universities play a vital role in fostering environments where ideas can be exchanged freely and constructively. At UCR, we remain committed to providing avenues for students, faculty, and staff to express their perspectives—whether through classroom discussion, scholarly research, campus forums, or peaceful demonstrations. These engagements are central to academic inquiry and the development of civic responsibility.

At the same time, the university must act to ensure that freedom of expression does not come at the expense of safety and belonging. This includes protecting our community from harassment, threats, impediments to access to classrooms and other facilities, and violence of any kind. We must comply with UC, state, and federal policies and laws that protect expressive activity, safeguard state and federally protected identities, and ensure timely and equitable access to our campus for all.

Our collective goal is to sustain a campus climate in which freedom of expression and the right to belong are not at odds—but mutually reinforced.

The California Legislature requires the University of California to implement and enforce these policies consistently across campuses.

Please review the information on this website, which outlines our policies, procedures, and enforcement practices in accordance with state requirements, our Principles of Community, and our institutional values.

We look forward to the year ahead with optimism for the learning, collaboration, and shared progress it will bring.

Sincerely, 

S. Jack Hu, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Elizabeth Watkins, Ph.D.

Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor

Brian L. Haynes, Ph.D.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Mariam Lam, Ph.D.

Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Denise Woods, Dr.P.H.

Vice Chancellor for Health, Well-being & Safety