As Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed, the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the rights and safety of everyone on campus. UIC highlights its protocols for interactions with external law enforcement and handling email or paper-based inquiries.
The university emphasizes the responsibility that comes with being one of the most diverse campuses in the nation. "We bear — and we welcome — the particular responsibility that comes with being one of the most diverse college campuses in the nation," a statement from UIC reads.
Regarding interactions with non-UIC law enforcement officers, including federal immigration officers, UIC has established clear guidelines. If such officers inquire about any individual on campus or request access to buildings, they should be referred to UIC Police at 943 W. Maxwell St., Chicago, IL, 60608. The police should also be informed directly by calling 312-996-2830.
The protocol includes instructions not to accept any documents presented by these officers but instead direct them to UIC Police. In cases where university counsel involvement is necessary, UIC Police will make referrals accordingly.
For email or other digital or paper-based inquiries from external parties outside normal interactions, individuals are advised to forward these requests to chancellor@uic.edu without responding themselves.
UIC states that this approach provides safeguarding for the campus community. "This protocol ensures a measure of safeguarding and care for our campus community," according to their statement.
UIC Police are trained professionals capable of determining the validity of warrants and subpoenas and assessing credential authenticity. They work closely with university counsel to keep legal teams informed.
The Office of the Chancellor can decide who best handles electronic or paper-based inquiries considering legal, educational, and health care contexts. This aims for consistency across campus operations.
On this day dedicated to Dr. King’s legacy, his words resonate: “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” The message encourages steadfastness in delivering broad access to educational excellence amidst future challenges faced together as a community.