Important Message Regarding Campus Policies on Encampments

We have been made aware of possible plans to establish encampments on Columbia's campuses. We want to clearly communicate that camping and encampments on Columbia's campuses are prohibited by University Policy. Our University Rules and Policies prioritize academic activities and communal use of campus space. A more detailed explanation of how an encampment as a form of protest runs the risk of serious violations under the Rules of University Conduct can be found here.  

University Response to Encampments 

If encampments or tents are established on University property, Public Safety will take the following actions: 

• Public Safety will immediately take steps to remove tents or other structures and remove them from the area; 

• Access to affected areas will be restricted, and the University may implement additional restrictions to campus access; 

• Participants will be instructed to disperse. Individuals who refuse to disperse will be identified and sanctions, including potential removal from campus and possible arrest, may be applied. 

We value free expression and the right to protest. These activities must be conducted in accordance with University Rules and Policies to ensure the safety of our community and that academic and other campus activities can continue unimpeded.  

Columbia University Public Safety