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UC DAVIS: OFFICE OF THE CHANCELLOR September 27, 2005 DEANS, DIRECTORS, DEPARTMENT CHAIRS, AND 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 2004-2006 General Catalog on page 63. 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 diversity of our co-workers 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 - which emphasize a strong commitment to communication - are offered for your consideration. 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 (530) 752-2071. Larry N. Vanderhoef Chancellor Daniel L. Simmons Chair, Academic Senate 05-105
 Office of the Chancellor | Contact Information | Current Issues | Speaking Out | Staff and Organization | Philosophy of Purpose | Principles of Community | Administrative Resources Modified: 12/14/2006 12:24:47 PM Comments: |
