3869 Wheeler Ave.
Houston, TX 77204-6191
(713) 743-3333
or 911 from a campus phone
non-emergency email
Civil
Protests
The University of
Houston Department
of Public Safety
(UHDPS) is committed
to assisting the
University in its
goal of fostering a
learning environment
where free inquiry
and expression are
encouraged. The
University expects
that persons
engaging in
expressive
activities will
demonstrate
civility, concern
for the safety of
persons and
property, respect
for University
activities, respect
for those who may
disagree with their
message, and
compliance with
University policies
and applicable
local, state and
federal laws.
NOTE: See MAPP 13.01.01, Freedom of Expression, for specific details regarding demonstrations on campus.
Preparation for Civil Protests
UHDPS will assign officers as appropriate to monitor scheduled Civil Protest. Additional officers will be called in to assist as necessary. Upon receiving a call regarding an unscheduled civil protest, an officer will be dispatched to the location of the protest to determine the circumstances surrounding the unscheduled event. The officer will advise the on-duty Patrol Sergeant, who in turn will advise a member of the Command Staff of the situation. Additional officers will be assigned as deemed necessary.
Dispersal Order
In all non-riotous civil protest situations, the decision to allow the protest to continue, and under what circumstances, will be made by a member of the University Administration. If the decision is made to allow the protest to continue, an officer will remain to monitor the protest. If the decision is made to not allow the protest to continue, a member of the University Administration will advise the protest leaders) that they need to disperse in accordance with the provisions of MAPP 13.01.01. If the group refuses to disperse after being informed to do so, UHDPS Officers, either alone or with the assistance of additional, non-UHDPS Police Officers, will take whatever enforcement steps, up to and including making physical arrests, necessary to disperse the crowd.
Notifications
UHDPS is responsible for all notifications in the event of a covil protest.
Publicity
The University’s response to all press inquiries regarding Civil Disorders shall be coordinated through University Media Relations.
