Message from Carolina on upcoming demonstrations

The University is preparing for the possibility of opposing demonstrations on and near campus on Saturday, May 4. The Town of Chapel Hill has alerted us of a planned protest by Confederate supporters downtown. Counter-protests may occur nearby on McCorkle Place.

We are aware that this is a reading day, and many of you will be preparing for exams across campus. We also recognize some of you may be feeling heightened stress and anxiety during this time. We want you to know that the University has been working closely with town officials and local law enforcement agencies over the past few months to ensure the safety of our community.

Given the events over this past academic year, we are mindful that the atmosphere is highly charged, and protests that begin peacefully do not always remain that way. If you choose to attend the events on Saturday, please take precautions to keep yourselves safe. Depending on the size of the event, streets may be closed and traffic may be rerouted around campus and the town. Please follow @UNC on Twitter for updates.

While we may not agree with all viewpoints expressed, as a public institution, we must uphold the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, in addition to the General Assembly’s North Carolina Restore and Preserve Free Speech Act and a Board of Governors policy on free speech and free expression in the UNC System, both enacted in 2017.

If you ever feel your safety is threatened, including on social media, contact police by dialing 911. We also have counseling services available for students, faculty and staff. During regular business hours, students are encouraged to call Counseling and Psychological Services at 919-966-3658. Faculty and staff may contact our Employee Assistance Program 24 hours a day at 877-314-5841.