Tents set up on campus

For all reports to managers

As a manager on campus with direct reports, I wanted to make you aware that a small number of tents were set up overnight in the quad outside the Taylor Family Digital Library and MacEwan Student Centre.    

Operations teams are in place to ensure the safety and security of the campus community and to provide monitoring.  
 
The university’s position can be summarized as: you are free to protest, but you are not free to set up encampments. This is based on our existing policies and procedures. The individuals involved have been advised, and provided documentation, that temporary structures and overnight protests are not permitted.  

The University of Calgary is working in co-ordination with the Calgary Police Service who have also been on-site this morning. 

Is the campus open? 

Yes, all UCalgary campuses are open and spring classes are underway.  

What are you doing about the situation?  

Safety remains our top priority. Campus Security and the Calgary Police Service are working together closely to ensure continued safety for everyone on campus.  

How are you supporting students and staff? 

Members of your team may be experiencing a wide range of emotions. If your staff or students express concern, please remind them that all UCalgary students, faculty and staff members have access to supports which can be found here.  

What should I do if my staff have safety concerns? 

At this time, we have no particular concerns about safety on campus, including in the vicinity of the encampment.   

However, should your staff express concerns for their safety, please take the time to meet with them to seek to understand their specific concerns.  

As managers, you have the discretion to make temporary modifications to where and how your team operate to ensure that staff remain safe. If you require advice, please contact your director, supervisor or HR partner.  

Should I recommend moving my classes online or have my team work from home? 

Our focus is to minimize impacts to regular operations. There is no indication at present that classes or work should be moved online.   

Where should I send people who have questions? 

comms@ucalgary.ca will intake questions and distribute them to the appropriate individual or group. 

We will keep you updated as campus leaders as this situation evolves.  

Mike Van Hee
Vice-President (Services)