West LA Times

UCLA has introduced a new framework aimed at enhancing campus safety, fostering dialogue, and promoting freedom of expression. The Four-Point Plan for a Safer, Stronger UCLA was announced by Interim Chancellor Darnell Hunt in response to recent events related to the Israel–Hamas war that led to demonstrations and counter-demonstrations on campus.

The plan emphasizes four key areas: safety and well-being, engagement across differences, free speech, and internal improvement. It aims to protect the diverse Bruin community by introducing new programs and initiatives designed to foster empathy and respectful dialogue among students, faculty, and staff.

“As a campus that promotes inclusive excellence, we must protect the ability for Bruins of all backgrounds and identities to feel safe, welcome, respected and able to participate fully in campus life,” Hunt stated. He emphasized the importance of engaging with respect and empathy even when there are disagreements on important issues.

The Office of Campus Safety will play a central role in coordinating safety efforts across UCLA. Created in May, this office oversees policing and emergency management operations. It will engage with campus members to understand their perspectives on security and improve approaches accordingly.

The Dialogue Across Difference initiative at UCLA’s Bedari Kindness Institute will host workshops starting in October focused on constructive conversations about divisive political topics. Additionally, the “Compassionate Conversations” speaker series will launch in November featuring experts discussing how to address challenging issues with compassion.

UCLA has updated its policies on freedom of expression in line with new University of California directives. These updates were shared with the campus community earlier this week, allowing for feedback during a 60-day comment period ending Nov. 4.

Continuous improvement is also a focus of the plan. The Office of Campus Safety is reviewing last spring’s events related to safety protocols and police response. UCLA’s Civil Rights Office is investigating reports of antisemitism and anti-Arab or Islamophobic discrimination while enforcing UC’s anti-discrimination policies.

“By investing in efforts that advance safety, respect and mutual understanding,” Hunt concluded, “my great hope is that UCLA can continue to be a model of inclusive excellence.”