President's Leadership Team Campus Message-Free Speech and Safety

Mar 27, 2025
Kane Building at RCC Campus

March 27, 2025

Dear RCC Community,

 On the afternoon of Monday (3/24/25) and Tuesday (3/25/25), there were a few visitors who came to campus to discuss controversial topics and distribute literature that included graphic images. Their activities have been creating tensions on our campus.

I would like to acknowledge the swift response and collaborative efforts of the individuals who were alerted and responded to the situation. Thank you to Dr. Megan Bottoms, Associate Professor/Coordinator of Student Life and Leadership, Micherri Wiggs, Interim Dean of the LHSS Division, RCCD Police Officer Michael Ochoa, Sergeant Octavio Rojas, Chief Mark Di Maggio, Dr. Thomas Cruz-Soto, Interim Vice President of Student Services, and Mr. Keith Dobyns, RCCD Legal Counsel. Moreover, I along with the Vice Presidents, Dr. Di Memmo, Dr. Woods, and Dr. Wright were in regular communication about the activities. This coordinated effort provided a physical presence on site to directly address the individuals with the RCCD Campus Free Speech procedures and to communicate consequences for disrupting the educational learning environment.

It is important to stay informed of our rights and due process as employees and students. The RCCD district policy on Discrimination and Harassment Complaints and Investigation, (AP 6435) guides the complaint process.  If you believe you experienced or witnessed unlawful discrimination or harassment, you may file a complaint by contacting the District Compliance Officer and Title IX Coordinator. The district policy on Campus Free Speech, (AP 3550) provides information on Time, Place and Manner. 

We understand the concerns of being photographed or recorded in public. Under California law, individuals can legally photograph or record in public spaces, including areas of campus that are open to the public. However, it is illegal to record someone without consent where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, private offices, or classrooms.

If you are approached or recorded by individuals you believe may misuse your words, image, or actions, we strongly advise that you do not engage. Avoid confrontation, walk away calmly, and notify Campus Police if you feel threatened or harassed in any way. Your safety, and that of our students, is paramount.

The following is a list of ways we will promote and cultivate a sense of safety and support during times of unplanned visitors on campus.

Strategic Communications on Campus

  • Placement of Campus Free Speech Zone and Designated Public Forum signage in high traffic areas
  • Placement of campus signage stating “graphic image warning”
  • College announcement informing campus community of unplanned visitors
  • Reminder to not engage, remain calm, and report

Campus Resources and Information Tabling Opportunities

Education and Training Opportunities

  • Organize a Teach-In on Reproductive Health Awareness
  • Organize a Workshop on Campus Free Speech, Academic Freedom, and Democracy

Report

Beginning next week, the President's Leadership Team will host a series of drop-in office hours both in person and via Zoom for increased opportunities to share your experiences and address concerns proactively. Please be on the lookout for the announcements.

We understand the emotional toll these activities have on our college community. Please take extra care and seek out campus and community resources for support through RCCD Employee Assistance Program and RCC Student Health & Psychological Services. 

As we near the end of Women’s Herstory Month and approach Cesar Chavez Day, I am reminded of the inspirational leadership of Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farmworkers of America. Dolores Huerta’s powerful Spanish phrase “Si se puede / Yes you can / It can be done” became the slogan of a movement. This call to action is relevant for the times we are in today.

We have the opportunity and responsibility to work collectively toward the empowerment and transformation of our campus community through education, information, and action.

We look forward to continuing this work together to advance RCC’s mission, vision, values, and goals.   

In community,

Dr. Claire Oliveros, President
Dr. Cruz-Soto, Interim Vice President, Student Services
Dr. Kristine Di Memmo, Vice President, Business Services
Dr. Kristi Woods, Interim Vice President, Planning and Development
Dr. Lynn Wright, Vice President, Academic Affairs