Message Body:

 

Honorable Chancellor Howard Gillman

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We approach you today after reading your recent statement to your students and faculty, issued on May 19, 2016:

 

Respecting the Lines of Civility

 

Dear Anteaters:

 

Last night, an incident occurred on campus that we believe crossed the line of civility, prompting me to re-emphasize our position on free speech, safety and mutual respect. 

 

The incident centered on a film-viewing event sponsored by Students Supporting Israel. 

A group of protesters reportedly disrupted the event, blocking exit paths.

Participants feared for their safety, calling on our police force for assistance.

 

While this university will protect freedom of speech, that right is not absolute.

As I mentioned in a campus message at the beginning of the academic year

threats, harassment, incitement and defamatory speech are not protected.

 

We must shelter everyone’s right to speak freely – without fear or intimidation

– and allow events to proceed without disruption and potential danger.

 

We are thoroughly analyzing all reports and information regarding this incident and

investigating whether disciplinary or legal actions are appropriate.

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The month of May is filled with cultural celebrations and remembrances that highlight the

diversity of this brilliant campus. Please respect your colleagues’ right to recognize their

heritage and express opinions in a safe environment.

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Fiat Lux,

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Chancellor Howard Gillman

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After the incident you embarked on a commendable mission, addressing students and

faculty at UCI, in the statement above titled "Respecting the Lines of Civility".

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We were profoundly touched to see a prominent educator in our society advocate for the

core values to which we adhere to.

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At the same time, we feel like the overall atmosphere of hate and aggression on our

campus is calling for severe measures.

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We feel that without taking a visible disciplinary action, the distinction between rightful

protests and harassments will dwindle, and positive statements will be left aside,

forgotten.

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All we ask of you is to proceed on your pursuit of furthering the search for wisdom, while

violations of UC Regents Hate Speech, like those we saw in the incident mentioned

above, are treated with the utmost severity.

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Our hopes are that more educators will follow your lead and so, our communities can

remain respectful of one another, especially in regards to incidents in which we

passionately disagree.

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Fiat Lux,

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