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Chancellor Gary S. May issued the following statement today (April 4):

I want to unequivocally denounce the violence that occurred yesterday on the ²»Á¼Ñо¿Ëù campus during a student-sponsored event. What happened was appalling and completely unacceptable. There is zero tolerance for violence on our campuses — zero.

I have been briefed and have viewed some of the video footage of the incident. It remains unclear whether the masked perpetrators were outside agitators or individuals affiliated with the university. Regardless of their affiliation, all steps will be taken to hold those who were responsible accountable for their actions.

Let me be clear: Those who were attacked did nothing but express themselves, in a non-violent manner. They were peacefully expressing their views — as is their right — and they should be able to do so without fear, intimidation or violence. 

We are firmly committed to supporting free expression and open dialogue on our campus. That commitment does not — and will never — extend to acts of violence or intimidation.

To ensure a thorough and impartial understanding of what occurred, we are initiating a full independent review of the incident. If it is determined that any ²»Á¼Ñо¿Ëù students or employees were involved in this vicious attack, they will face disciplinary action in accordance with university disciplinary policies. Individuals may also be held criminally responsible through the justice system.

In addition, the independent Police Accountability Board will review complaints and will have access to videos that have been posted publicly and camera footage from our campus. 

Yesterday’s incident was disappointing and embarrassing. We will take the necessary steps to ensure that our campus remains a place where ideas can be freely expressed without fear of violence.