Chancellor Daniel Ritchie has put the university on heightened-alert status and an e-mail has been sent to all faculty and students studying abroad, cautioning them to keep a low profile.
“The Office of Internationalization urges students [studying abroad] to remain alert, to avoid demonstrations or peace rallies and to stay away from American gathering places such as Hard Rock CafCB)s,” according to an online statement issued by the University of Denver community. “Do not publicize your nationality by wearing American sweatshirts and baseball caps.”
The “War Precaution” page includes a letter from. Ritchie and Provost Robert Coombe and a statement titled “Safety on campus in times of war,” which details the resources available to DU students and faculty, and explains measures that DU members can take.
The statement says that the Office of Internationalization has issued an e-mail message to its students and faculty in study abroad programs to “register with the nearest American consulate or embassy and keep in touch with family members.”
However, students that were abroad last fall felt safe.
“I think the general consensus among students and my professor was we were safer in London than in Denver,” Liz Smith said.
“Students also are advised to keep apprised of State Department travel warnings,” the statement says.
In addition to the protection of students studying abroad the university voiced concern for international students on campus who come from almost 100 countries.
“They are valued members of our community, and we expect each of them to be treated with the respect and courtesy due any individual, despite the emotions associated with current events.”
The on campus International House facilitates information, student concerns and campus resources, such as counseling. Students desiring counseling are encouraged to contact the Counseling and Behavioral Health Center in the Ritchie Center.
Students will be protected by increased security, the Web page says. Students are encouraged to keep watch of their belongings and report suspicious people or circumstances. Students should respect opposing views on war, to be prepared and to use cell phones in the case of an emergency to prevent tying up school phones.
“We have no information suggesting that DU is the target of a [possible] terrorist attack, but it is reasonable to be vigilant and prepared,” Ritchie said.
When asked what the university hopes to accomplish by the “War Precaution” statement, News and Public Relations Director Warren Smith said, “We want the university to be alert, but not alarmed.”
He said the statement was inspired by the federal government’s statement that universities are potential targets.
The alert is not exclusive to DU, Smith said.
“If you look at other universities’ Web pages, you will see that they have posted other war precautions,” he said.
Although the university has ensured that Campus Safety will provide safety to opposing groups, the school “does not tolerate disruption of classes or other DU business, nor does it tolerate destruction of property,” according to the safety information in the statement.
“Students may organize or attend political demonstrations on campus property,” the statement says. [However,] “public demonstrations on campus property are required to give prior notice to the Director of Student Involvement, Carl Johnson…to arrange an appropriate venue.”
Outside groups may demonstrate on city sidewalks; those wishing to demonstrate on campus must obtain a permit from the Denver Police Department.
The university’s reaction is reflexive of the national outlook of the time, Smith said.
“I think in general, Americans are much more vigilant than before. It’s a new age. It’s a reality. It’s a sign of the time,” Smith said. “I would encourage people to…be aware that we are living in dangerous times. It pays to be alert, not alarmed. We will do everything we can to keep the campus community safe.”
