Resources, reminders for civic discourse and events

Over the coming weeks and months, a number of events, religious holidays, and the election season may raise concerns for members of the Carolina community.  

There are a variety of resources available to ensure faculty, staff and students can thrive as they live, work and learn at Carolina this semester. 

Campus leaders have often discussed the University’s highest principles, which support free speech and peaceful demonstrations; Carolina’s core mission of teaching, research, and service; and the safety and well-being of community members. 

“Carolina has a long and noble history of civic discourse and student activism,” said Chancellor Lee H. Roberts. “That tradition has informed transformative social change in this state and across the country.” 

Roberts added: “We also expect that members of the Carolina community who choose to express their views, and those who join them, will follow policies and laws that allow the University to fulfill its mission of research, education and service to North Carolina and protect the safety of all members of our community. No matter the cause, no one has the right to threaten others or damage public property.”   

Academic and administrative offices across the campus have collaborated over the past several months to ensure that resources related to safety, protests, demonstrations, reporting discrimination and harassment, and support for those who feel at risk are easily accessible. These include: 

• A free speech website that combines information regarding rights, policies and how the University prepares for events and demonstrations. It also includes resources for students, faculty and staff for mental health support and how to report discrimination. 
• A variety of resources to support student well-being, including the Dean of Students team, Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Wellness, and many more. Visit the Heels Care Network website for a full list.
• Information about UNC’s Equal Opportunity and Compliance Office and how to report discrimination or harassment.
• A protest and demonstration website that provides information about latest events.

Carolina students, faculty and staff are also encouraged to participate in the numerous public programs that are taking place over the semester, which include academic experts from UNC-Chapel Hill and other universities, policymakers, journalists and activists representing diverse perspectives. Upcoming events and speakers can be found on the University’s calendar.  

“The classroom is the foundation of learning, but a Carolina education is also about engagement,” said Provost J. Christopher Clemens. “Every day on this campus is an opportunity to hear ideas from the best minds on the planet – and to challenge and refine those ideas. That’s important in an election year with intense debate about some of the fundamental issues of culture, politics, history, science, health and all of the subjects at the core of our curriculum and our mission.” 

The provost has requested that faculty provide flexibility for students who miss class because they are impacted by Hurricane Helene, or in light of upcoming events.