As the University of Oklahoma community gears up to celebrate Free Speech Week, students planning campus demonstrations are reminded to touch base with the Campus Event Response Team, or CERT, established several years ago.
Brynn Daves, assistant vice president and associate dean of students, said the initial goal of CERT has stayed consistent throughout.
“CERT was established to support student well-being and safety during campus demonstrations, whether hosted by OU students or outside community members,” Daves said. “Once CERT becomes aware of an event, CERT members reach out to the organizers to establish communication, offer guidance navigating university processes and provide support for a safe and successful event. CERT also attends the events, offering a caring presence, support for students experiencing emotional triggers and responses, de-escalation efforts for conflict situations and guidance and information for students attending the event.”
Kasra George Ahmadi, director of student government and organization services, said this effort by CERT also supports students’ right to free speech.
“The goal of CERT is to support the University of Oklahoma's dedication to fostering an environment where ideas and opinions can be freely exchanged,” Ahmadi said. “CERT can be a resource for all members of the university community in times of potential unrest, protests and select events during which there is a potential for counter demonstration or emotional triggers and responses.”
CERT also coordinates with campus partners, such as the OU police Department, to ensure safety at these events.
Daves encouraged students to reach out to CERT for any events where support may be needed.
“Students are invited to contact and/or work with CERT in organizing/hosting their demonstration, protest and/or rally. CERT also welcomes any notice of events be planned to take place on campus,” Daves said. “Students often share their positive feedback with our presence at CERT-attended events.”
About the OU Division of Student Affairs
Student Affairs strives to enhance students' academic success by developing student skills, cultivating diverse campus life experiences, and enriching the university community through programs and services. For more information visit ou.edu/studentaffairs.
