U-M statement on “meet up” near campus

Feb. 3, 2016

Update Feb. 4: According to this group’s website, the event near the Ann Arbor campus has been canceled.

At the University of Michigan we do not tolerate violence of any kind against members of our community.

The U-M Division of Public Safety and Security is aware of an event being promoted through social media that is scheduled to take place Feb. 6 near campus.

DPSS is working collaboratively with the Ann Arbor Police as well as other local, state and federal law enforcement partners to monitor the situation.

It’s important to note there is no known criminal activity tied to this group.

While one of this university’s core values is the freedom to speak freely, the university does not share the same views as the group organizing a “meet up” for like-minded men.

We remain committed to providing a safe, welcoming and respectful campus environment where our community can live and learn without fear of hostility or reprisal based on who they are or what they believe.

Many students, parents, staff and faculty have reached out to express concern or voice their outrage regarding the planned “meet up.”

The strong and unequivocal response of condemnation of this group by the university community demonstrates that our community values respect for all persons and rejects language and actions that promote sexual and gender-based violence.

Some may have experienced emotional distress, fear, anger, anxiety or helplessness; others may have questions about their safety or the safety of those they care about after seeing posts about this event.  For those seeking emotional support, SAPAC’s confidential Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day at 734-936-3333, as well as Housing staff and the Dean of Students staff.

The U-M Division of Public Safety and Security reminds us that prioritizing one’s personal safety is always a good idea. Risk of attack by a stranger may be reduced by:

  • Being aware of your surroundings and looking assertive.
  • Walking with a friend or co-worker in well-lit areas.
  • Trusting your intuition – if a particular situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, choose an alternative.
  • Keeping rooms locked at all times.
  • Utilizing campus transportation resources.

If you feel threatened or see suspicious behavior, call 9-1-1.