Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin-Madison recently addressed a protest that took place on Monday at Library Mall. In a message posted at 7:15 p.m., campus leaders reaffirmed the institution's commitment to free expression and peaceful protest within the boundaries of state law and campus policies. Jennifer Mnookin, Chancellor of UW-Madison, along with other campus leaders, emphasized their support for protesters to exercise their First Amendment rights.

In response to the protest, which involved the erection of several tents in violation of state law, campus representatives engaged with the participants and shared protest guidelines with the organizers. The university officials made it clear that compliance with campus policy and state law, including the removal of the tents, was necessary for further dialogue. Mnookin, Provost Charles Isbell, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Lori Reesor, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion LaVar Charleston, and Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Robert Cramer signed the message.

The university urged protestors to comply with the state law against tents and encampments on university property and encouraged them to explore alternative forms of protest that do not involve erecting tents. The campus leaders expressed readiness to meet with the protest organizers once compliance with the law had been achieved.

The message from the university concluded with a call for voluntary compliance with state law and a hope that protesters would opt for alternative ways to express their views on campus grounds. The university reiterated its support for peaceful protest as a significant aspect of UW-Madison's history.

The university's stance on the protest reflects a commitment to upholding the rights of students and community members to engage in peaceful demonstrations while ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.