Media Advisory

UF information on potential speaker on campus

Potential Speaker on Campus FAQs
(Updated 4 p.m. Tuesday, August 15)

What is happening?

The National Policy Institute has reached out to the university to reserve space for a speaking event featuring white nationalist and “alt-right” activist Richard Spencer on September 12. This organization is unaffiliated with the university - no student groups or other groups affiliated with the university are sponsoring this speech.

Is this event definitely happening?

No. This event is not finalized and it is still under discussion. It is pending a signed contract and advance payment of all required facility and security fees.

What is UF doing in response?

UF administration, staff and campus police are developing a security plan for the potential event. We are working with colleagues across the country who have had similar events on their campus.  The university will engage appropriate law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, for their support and guidance.

President Fuchs announced the speaker’s request in an email to the University community, posted on this link: http://statements.ufl.edu/

Why would this organization be allowed to come to campus?

University regulation 2.004 states that non-university groups, organizations and persons may rent space on campus. They must cover rental expenses and security costs like other third-party renters. We must follow the law, upholding the First Amendment not to discriminate based on content and provide access to a public space.

What options are available to the university?

University leadership is considering a variety of options, but no decision has been made yet.

Could public safety be a consideration in any decision not to allow the event to take place?

The university is looking at all options as it decides which course to take going forward.

How to get more information:

For all media inquiries, please contact Janine Sikes at media-requests@ufl.edu.