Initial Statement for Media, April 26

On Thursday, a protest started on the Tivoli Quad on the Auraria Campus. Numerous discussions have taken place with the students before yesterday's demonstration, including a session Thursday night involving Dr. Angie Paccione, the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education and a member of the Governor's cabinet. These engagements have been aimed at attentively hearing and comprehending the students' perspectives. The Auraria Campus and the three higher education institutions continue to be committed to listening to and collaborating with the students and protecting their right to free speech.

We are aware of individuals near the demonstration who falsely present themselves as representatives of the higher education institutions and the Auraria Higher Education Center. Additionally, we know of national disruptors who are not students who have joined this demonstration. It's important to note that all faculty and staff members associated with each entity on campus possess official badges for identification purposes.

We fully support the right of students to assemble peacefully. Still, it's essential to note that Auraria Campus policy prohibits camping on the premises because of health, safety, and security considerations. Participants set up an encampment and were repeatedly notified that they did not comply with the policy.