UW proposes stricter conduct rules amid ongoing Gaza-war protest unrest
The University of Washington is set to adopt tougher student conduct policies, targeting masked protesters, expanding definitions of disruption and vandalism, and adding doxing to prohibited behavior.
Amid a series of violent protests linked to the Gaza conflict, the University of Washington is considering a suite of new conduct measures. Drafts released in July would penalize participants who wear masks while committing prohibited acts, expand the legal definition of "disruption" and "vandalism," and add "doxing" to the list of banned conduct. The university plans to discuss the revisions at a Tuesday hearing, with implementation slated for Sept. 9 pending approval.
President Robert Jones has previously noted that the existing conduct code was not designed for current circumstances. Federal officials, including Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, have criticized past campus incidents and launched investigations into the university’s handling of antisemitism. The proposed rules also allow withholding graduation ceremonies and other privileges for students who refuse lawful orders to vacate occupied spaces.
Why it matters
The policy shift could reshape how universities handle protest-related violence and free-speech disputes nationwide.
In this story
