The University of Texas at Austin supports the First Amendment right of every person on our campus. The University offers an environment where free speech can be used to expand knowledge, debate ideas and bring awareness of different views and experiences.
The Office of the Dean of Students’ mission is to develop students, foster involvement and provide support for all Longhorns throughout their UT Austin experience. Our office has always supported student events and programs, and educated our students on our institutional rules, and I am excited to announce the formation of a new unit — Event Readiness and Response — to build on this support. This team will provide support and training for students, student organizations and campus partners to aid in planning and execution of campus events that may garner expressive activities. They will also facilitate educational programs on rights and responsibilities for student demonstrations.
The Event Readiness and Response webpage provides resources on University policy, demonstration guidelines, where and when amplified sound (such as bullhorns or drums) can be used — and how to reserve such a space. You will also find contact information if you or a member of your group needs help interpreting the time, place and manner rules regarding on-campus events.
The Office of the Dean of Students is prioritizing fostering the development of empathetic citizens through creation of a new program on civic discourse. A core goal of this program is to provide students with the tools and strategies to manage conflict and engage in productive conversation on difficult topics. My office will have more to share as we roll out the program in the coming weeks.
Protecting your safety and your Constitutional rights remains a vital part of the University’s vision for the future of our campus. There is a shared responsibility to create an environment where we learn from our differences and support expressive activity. The Office of the Dean of Students is ready to help our community reach that vision.
Sincerely,
