UC Regents face demands for divestment and anti-bias action from students and faculty

In a charged atmosphere at the University of California's Board Meeting on March 17, 2025, voices from across the campus community rose in a powerful call for change. The meeting, held at 8:30 AM, became a platform for urgent discussions on pressing issues, including divestment from military investments, rising antisemitism, and the need for better support for marginalized students.

The meeting opened with a stark reminder of the university's mission to serve society and advance knowledge. A passionate speaker highlighted the UC's staggering $32 billion investment in military industries, arguing that such financial commitments contradict the institution's stated values. "What is truly costly is complicity," they declared, urging the Regents to divest from war profiteering and align their investments with the university's commitment to public good.

As the discussions unfolded, Rebecca Metzger, a librarian from UCSB, voiced concerns about antisemitism on campus, calling for an independent review of university programs to ensure that diversity initiatives do not promote bias against Jewish students. Her plea underscored the complexity of navigating identity and inclusion within the university's diverse community.

Stacy Farenthold, an associate professor at UC Davis, shared her experiences of hostility faced by Middle East studies faculty, emphasizing the need for academic freedom and protection against discrimination. She urged the Regents not to yield to political pressures that threaten the integrity of educational programs.

The meeting also addressed critical issues surrounding student health and safety. Julianne, a senior at UCLA, raised alarms about funding cuts to care resources for students, highlighting the struggles faced by care offices across the UC system. Her call for centralized funding resonated with many, as she emphasized the importance of maintaining accessible support for students in need.

As the session progressed, faculty and students alike expressed their fears regarding potential federal funding cuts and the implications for the university's mission. Constance Penley, a professor emerita, warned against a defensive posture that could undermine the UC's commitment to research and public service.

The voices of students echoed throughout the meeting, with many advocating for sanctuary spaces within UC medical facilities and campuses, emphasizing the need for safe environments for all students, regardless of their background. Emily Simmons, a registered nurse, passionately represented the California Nurses Association, calling for the rejection of political interference in patient care.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and determination. Students and faculty alike demanded accountability and action from the Regents, urging them to consider the implications of their decisions on the university's future and its role in society. As the discussions wrapped up, it was clear that the community was watching closely, eager to see how the university would respond to these pressing calls for change. The path forward remains uncertain, but the commitment to advocacy and the pursuit of justice within the UC system is unmistakable.