Dear members of the Columbia community,
It has come to our attention that members of our community are planning an unapproved activity on campus today in the vicinity of Low Library in violation of our pre-notification policies. To be clear, no protests, demonstrations, or vigils have been approved for Morningside’s lower campus on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
As noted in communications sent last week, the University has a policy regarding pre-notification for various events on campus, including vigils, demonstrations, and protests. While the University supports the right of all members of our community to demonstrate and protest consistent with the Rules of University Conduct, it is imperative that demonstrations not infringe on the rights of others to participate in University functions.
As a reminder, this week, from October 6 to 8 and October 10, the University requires advanced notification of at least two business days for demonstrations or protests held on any Columbia campus. Demonstrations or protests held without timely pre-notification or with no pre-notification on these dates will be required to relocate or disperse. Failure to do so may result in violations of the Rules of University Conduct.
Additionally, the following activities are prohibited, consistent with University Policies and the Rules of University Conduct:
- Demonstration-related marching around campus
- Use of amplified sound without a permit
- Blocking of walkways or other means of building egress
- Refusal to provide identification when requested by Public Safety or a University Delegate
This reminder is not intended to prevent or dissuade demonstrations or vigils that have followed University procedures, but simply to organize the time, place, and manner of demonstrations, as is allowed under the Rules of University Conduct and our Vigil Policy, to prevent conflict with registered events, to enable equitable allocation of space and time for counterdemonstrations, and to avoid disruption of the University’s academic functions.
Please leave additional time to transit through campus on Tuesday, October 7, as there may be increased campus activity.
Adhering to University policies helps balance everyone’s right to free expression with the University’s responsibility to maintain a campus environment conducive to learning and scholarship. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation on this matter.
Sincerely,
Columbia University Facilities and Operations
Office of Public Safety
Office of University Life
Office of Rules Administration
