Golden State Today

Chancellor Carol Christ and Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Benjamin Hermalin of the University of California, Berkeley, addressed the campus community following an incident that disrupted an event featuring a speaker from Israel.

Christ and Hermalin expressed their deep concerns in a message to the community, acknowledging the violation of fundamental values during the incident. They highlighted the importance of upholding the Principles of Community that protect free speech, diversity of perspective, and unity within the campus.

The disruption occurred when a group of around 200 protesters surrounded the building where the event was scheduled to take place. Despite efforts to secure the venue and ensure the safety of attendees, the protesters forcefully entered the building, leading to the cancellation of the event and the evacuation of the premises.

In response to the incident, the university officials extended their sympathies to those affected and emphasized the support available to students and members of the public who were present during the disruption. They urged individuals to report their experiences to the appropriate university authorities for further investigation.

The university administration emphasized their commitment to addressing violations of campus rules while respecting the right to peaceful protest. They underscored the importance of safeguarding the rights of individuals to express diverse perspectives without facing threats or intimidation.

Looking ahead, Christ and Hermalin pledged to thoroughly investigate the incident, take necessary actions to prevent similar occurrences in the future, and uphold the university's values of free speech, open inquiry, and an inclusive civil society.

The leaders concluded by reaffirming their dedication to protecting and preserving the Principles of Community at Berkeley University, seeking the support of the campus community in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all.