Dear Colleagues:
Events at a recent commencement ceremony have highlighted the need to ensure a shared understanding among event organizers, staff at the door, students, and guests, regarding what is and isn’t permitted during graduation events.
In addition to Berkeley’s Time, Place, and Manner policies, we know that each venue may have its own specific rules that event organizers and attendees are expected to follow, such as a list of prohibited items. We ask that you remind your faculty, staff, and graduating students about these policies in advance of your ceremonies. For example, we recognize that participants might bring a small flag or perhaps drape a flag over their regalia; however, it is our policy that participants should not bring items that obscure people’s views, such as flags or banners.
Clear, consistent communication of the rules in advance, as well as a shared understanding of how to respond when they are violated, is the best way to avoid confusion on the day and to ensure our ceremonies are everything our graduates and their families deserve.
We are grateful for your partnership and commitment to making this a memorable commencement season that reflects the best of Berkeley.
Sincerely,
Richard K. Lyons
Chancellor
Benjamin E. Hermalin
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
This message was sent to UC Berkeley deans and department chairs.
