Chancellor Frenk shared this message with the Bruin community.
Dear Bruin Community:
I wanted to check in with you and share a video message, as well as the message below that UC President Michael Drake sent last night regarding recent federal policy actions. The UC’s Federal Updates web page continues to be updated, so I hope you will visit it often for weekly briefs and new information.
To help our community understand the possible impact of new policy changes, I have asked our Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Darnell Hunt and senior leaders from research, student affairs, academic personnel, inclusive excellence and other key areas to hold a campuswide Town Hall next week to share the latest updates and answer your questions. You will receive more information about this in the coming days.
Let’s stay informed. Let’s stay connected. And let’s remember: We are One UCLA.
Julio Frenk
Chancellor
Message from University of California President Michael V. Drake:
On Friday, February 14, the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights distributed broadly a “Dear Colleague” letter regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The letter provided guidance on the Education Department’s interpretation of existing anti-discrimination laws and indicates how the Office of Civil Rights may assess compliance with certain legal requirements. UC leadership across the system is working with members of our community to evaluate the potential impact and implications of the letter and will provide updates or guidance as appropriate. As many in our community are aware, the University of California has been operating under longstanding state law requirements and does not consider race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in our practices.
The University of California’s mission is built on teaching, research, healthcare, and public service for the benefit of all Californians. To meet our ambitious goals, we provide opportunities for students, faculty, and staff from all backgrounds to study, teach, conduct research, work, provide quality patient care, and thrive at UC. Different perspectives and experiences enrich and improve our academic, research, and service outcomes.
Our mission and values have not changed. We encourage UC staff to continue with their work in alignment with all applicable state and federal laws. We will continue to ensure that every Californian has the opportunity to join the UC community and feels welcome at our campuses. We are committed to ensuring that our campuses benefit from the talents and aspirations of all, as we create a vibrant workforce for future
generations.
Sincerely,
Michael V. Drake, MD
President
University of California