Saturday, June 6, 2020

The University of Iowa is strongly committed to the freedom of expression. The Pentacrest has long been used as a gathering place by the campus and Iowa City communities to exercise their First Amendment rights, and the university has designated this historic space to be used for this meaningful purpose.

The university is also committed to ensuring the safety of everyone who uses its shared space and to preventing the destruction of public property. To facilitate peaceful protests on the Pentacrest, the university has taken the following measures to enhance safety for those participating:

  • Adding lighting to improve visibility
  • Erecting a fence around the Old Capitol to prevent unsafe climbing
  • Erecting a stage to provide a platform for speakers
  • Installing barriers to prevent vehicles from driving on the grounds

The university also has preserved a memorial for Breonna Taylor to honor her memory.