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UC DAVIS: OFFICE OF THE CHANCELLOR

September 29, 2003

DEANS, DIRECTORS, DEPARTMENT CHAIRS, AND CAMPUS/UCDHS ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS

RE: Respecting Religious and Cultural Diversity

UC Davis is committed to providing students, faculty, and staff with an
environment that furthers their educational and career pursuits.  Each year
we write to remind all members of the UC Davis community of our commitment
to avoid, when possible, the scheduling of campuswide events, retreats, and
meetings that conflict with religious holy days.  The precise dates of
these holy days may vary from year to year, but they are usually indicated
in contemporary datebooks and calendars and may be found at
http://diversity.ucdavis.edu/html/calendar_holiday.html.  We ask you to be
mindful of the Academic Senate resolution stating that "UC Davis seeks to
accommodate any student who, in observance of a religious creed, encounters
an unavoidable conflict with a test or examination schedule...."  That
resolution may be found in the 2002-04 General Catalog on page 65.

In addition, as an educational institution, we can play a role in fostering
an awareness of, and respect for, the various spiritual and cultural
beliefs, practices, and needs of our community.

For example, office decorations that serve to advance the educational role
of our institution or honor the celebratory diversity of our coworkers and
clients are appropriate.  Each year, especially as the December holiday
season nears, many questions and concerns are raised as to what decorations
are appropriate in offices and reception areas on our campus.  While a
campus policy does not exist, the following guidelines are offered for your
consideration:  communication, communication, communication.

Departmental or office colleagues should discuss how, when, and in what
manner holiday decorations will be displayed so that all members of our
community are respected.  To avoid misunderstandings, department
managers/supervisors may want to determine guidelines for the amount of
staff time used in decorating the office and the process for selecting the
holidays to be highlighted.  In decorating public spaces every
consideration should be given to ensure that we are respectful and
inclusive of the clients, guests, and colleagues who interact with us. 

For more information or to schedule a presentation on honoring diverse
holidays, please contact the Office of Campus Community Relations at 752-2071.

Larry N. Vanderhoef
Chancellor

Bruce R. Madewell
Chair, Academic Senate

03-111



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