Campus Demonstrations and The War in Gaza
As a public institution bound by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is committed by tradition, law, and by its defining values to the freedom of speech, assembly, thought, inquiry, and artistic expression for all members of its community. At the same time, the university is committed to the safety and wellbeing of its entire community while providing equitable access to public spaces and ensuring that the rights of others are not infringed upon.
This site provides history and context to the university’s viewpoint-neutral response to on-campus demonstrations in the wake of Hamas’ attack on Israel in October of 2023.
Timelines and Frequently Asked Questions
Letters to Campus
- September 4, 2024: Campus Demonstration Policy Taskforce Report and Reflections on Institutional Positions
- August 23, 2024: An Update from the Chancellor on Important Work and Dialogue
- June 17, 2024: Reviewing Policies and Responses to Campus Demonstrations
- May 20, 2024: A Message from Chancellor Reyes Following Today’s Faculty Vote
- May 8, 2024: A Message from the Chancellor
- May 7, 2024: A Message from the Chancellor About Today’s Campus Disruption
- May 1, 2024: A Message from the Provost on Recent Campus Events
- April 30, 2024: A Message from the Chancellor — Tent Encampment Peacefully Dismantled
- April 29, 2024: A Message from the Chancellor on the Encampment
- April 25, 2024: Response to Public Meeting Objectives
- Dec. 15, 2023: A Look Toward the Spring Semester
- Nov. 5, 2023: A Message from Student Affairs and Campus Police Leadership
- Oct. 26, 2023: Campus Activism at UMass Amherst
- Oct. 10, 2023: Statement on War in the Middle East
Relevant Policies
Campus Resources
For Students
- Center for Counseling and Psychological Health
- Dean of Students Office
- The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life
- International Student and Scholar Services