Faculty members at various University of California campuses, including San Diego, have raised concerns about labor violations within the UC system. According to the Council of University of California Faculty Associations, there was an alleged effort to suppress pro-Palestinian speech and campus protests earlier this year.
The faculty associations at seven UC campuses jointly filed a complaint with the state Public Employment Relations Board, accusing UC administrators of threatening faculty members who taught about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and initiating disciplinary actions against those who supported on-campus student encampments.
Constance Penley, the president of the council, criticized the university’s actions as a way to limit academic freedom and discourage discussions about the war that do not align with the university’s stance. The accusations also include investigations into social media posts, arrests of faculty for exercising their free speech rights, and surveillance and intimidation by university representatives.
Following the clearance of pro-Palestinian encampments by police, the aftermath has led to ongoing issues at campuses statewide. New protest regulations have been implemented by university officials, and student protesters are facing suspensions and holds on their academic records.
In response to the allegations, UC spokesperson Heather Hansen emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting free speech and lawful protests while ensuring the safety and rights of all community members. The university stated that it has policies in place to regulate the time, place, and manner of protest activities on its campuses.
The case will be reviewed by the Public Employee Relations Board, which will determine whether to dismiss the charges or proceed with negotiations for a settlement. If a settlement is not reached, the case will proceed to a formal hearing before an administrative law judge. The outcome of this process will shed light on the allegations of labor violations within the UC system and the impact on faculty members and students involved in pro-Palestinian activism.