Protesters escalate tactics

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this communication indicated doors were locked with zip ties by protestors as they blocked entrances and disrupted campus operations as preliminary reports indicated, however we have since confirmed that the ties were placed by law enforcement to secure the doors.

May 7, 2024

Dear Roadrunners,

Earlier today, protesters entered the Tivoli Student Union, blocked entrances and created a disturbance. Police have secured the area, and there is no reason to believe anyone in or around Tivoli is unsafe. Normal campus operations continue.  

Today’s action happened as Angie Paccione, the executive director of the state Department of Higher Education, was meeting with demonstrators inside the building in an attempt to continue dialogue.  

On Monday afternoon, protestors forcefully entered the locked Auraria Campus executive offices inside the Tivoli. They pushed past a student employee and then refused to leave after multiple requests. Campus staff and police officers led a conversation that resulted in protestors agreeing to meet at a future time. The protestors left the offices and returned to the encampment on the Tivoli Quad. 

Over the past few days, we’ve seen evidence of trespassing, biohazard threats and blocked city roads. There has also been vandalism on campus, including an increase antisemitic language and messages appearing on campus property. We cannot allow free speech to devolve into discrimination. Please report such incidents to the MSU Denver Office of Equal Opportunity.  

I want to remind you that we will do what is necessary to keep our campus safe, including enforcing our student code of conduct and any applicable laws. Students who violate our code of conduct could face penalties, including suspension or expulsion. Those who break the law may face criminal charges. 

This is a complex, evolving situation. Campus leaders continue earnest efforts to de-escalate it through ongoing discussions with protestors. The Auraria Campus Police Department and other law enforcement agencies continue to partner with one another and with Auraria leaders to ensure the campus is safe and secure. MSU Denver will not tolerate those who break the law, engage in violent acts or otherwise threaten the safety and wellbeing of our community. 

MSU Denver remains committed to balancing the right to free expression with our duty to keep our campus community safe.

We will continue to provide updates on our campus-demonstration webpage, where you’ll find situational updates, frequently asked questions, links to resources and more. 

Sincerely,

Janine Davidson, Ph.D.
President