SUBJECT:

UC Polices Regarding Political Endorsements And Affiliations

Now that we are well into the political season with the national election in the headlines and the California primary around the corner, it is necessary to remind all faculty and staff of the UC policies regarding political endorsements and affiliations.

If you are to be involved politically and/or publicly aligned with any candidates or issue campaigns that are on the ballot, it is UC policy that a University employee can endorse a candidate or ballot measure in his/her private capacity and use his/her name and title for identification purposes only and in the same manner as others who sign an endorsement. However, you must include an express disclaimer, something to the affect of: "affiliation for identification purposes only." This disclaimer is required where the context might reasonably cause confusion as to whether the endorsement is made in an unofficial or official capacity.

There is no restriction on freedom of speech, but it has to be clear that people are speaking for themselves, not the University. Additionally, University funds (including University paid time and equipment) may not lawfully be used for campaign purposes.

For more information on advocating on specific issues here is a link to the UCOP website:

http://www.ucop.edu/state/advocacy/ballotguidelines.html

Thank you for your attention and compliance.

Paul W. Drake Senior Vice Chancellor