Free
speech rights continue for suspended student group
26 April 2002
Media Relations
UC
Berkeley Dean of Students Karen Kenney today (4/26/02) issued
the following statement to clarify misunderstandings about the
temporary suspension of Students for Justice in Palestine as
a registered student group:
Free
speech is a cherished tradition at UC Berkeley. Unfortunately,
news reports of a decision by UC Berkeley to temporarily suspend
recognition of Students for Justice in Palestine as a registered
student group following an unlawful occupation of a building
where classes were being held have led to confusion over the
free speech rights of this group on campus. It is important
to clarify that suspension of the group's status as a registered
student group does not preclude it from free speech activities
afforded all students. It does, however, limit the group's use
of university resources, such as reserving classrooms for meetings
and the Sproul Hall steps for scheduled events.
All
registered student groups agree to abide by regulations governing
the use of campus facilities. The campus may suspend a group's
privileges when its members violate the rules or when the campus
has reason to believe a student group will continue to undertake
activities that will disrupt the academic mission.
As
Chancellor Robert M. Berdahl said on April 8, the day before
the building occupation: "This
University has a proud history in the defense of free expression.
It is our responsibility to provide a neutral forum for individuals
and groups to advocate their cause. ... Most importantly, it
is our responsibility to protect the rights of all members of
the campus community to pursue their reason for being here –
the work of teaching, learning, and research – uninterrupted
by anyone."
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