As members of a dynamic public institution of higher education and an academic medical center, the UAB and UAB Medicine community have a responsibility to be mindful during election season.
“One of the special things about UAB is that our 50,000-plus students, faculty and staff of widely different backgrounds and perspectives come together every day to better themselves and improve others’ lives,” said UAB President Ray Watts, who also serves as chair of the Health System Board. “The transformational results our collaborative learning and work culture deliver are too important to let differences of opinion get in our way, so I ask the UAB and UAB Medicine community to continue to promote civil discourse and maintain a respectful environment this election season and beyond.”
Here are six things to keep in mind this election season and beyond:
- Values and Codes: Our shared values (We CARE) are a reflection that members of our UAB community Collaborate, Act with integrity, Respect all, and Excel, and we are required to adhere to the Enterprise Code of Conduct and Student Conduct Code.
- Free Speech and Civil Discourse: As a public institution, UAB protects free speech and promotes civil discourse. Members of the campus community cannot impede others’ rights to free speech and assembly, and activity cannot disrupt activities of the institution (Freedom of Expression and Use of UAB Facilities Policy).
- Institutional Neutrality: UAB adheres to institutional neutrality codified by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees.
- Time to Vote: Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to vote outside of their class/work hours. If someone’s schedule does not allow for voting, they are encouraged to talk to their instructor or supervisor; if necessary and reasonable, the instructor or supervisor can exercise discretion in providing an accommodation.
- HR Policy 304.F-Voting Leave is a helpful reference for employees. Non-exempt employees have the option to use paid time off per hour, and exempt employees can use paid time off in half-day increments. Alabama law allows employees up to one hour of unpaid leave to vote.
- Public Employee Political Speech/Activity: UAB faculty and staff should feel comfortable fulfilling their civic responsibilities as private citizens. However — because UAB is a public entity — employees should:
- Avoid the appearance that their private, individual political views and activity represent the institution.
- Comply with ethical and legal requirements that govern interactions with public officials; employees do not represent the institution unless approval is granted.
- Comply with laws regarding the use of state resources, time and property for or on behalf of any candidate, campaign or organization, or for any contribution or solicitation of any contribution to a political campaign or organization.
- Take Care: Election season can be stressful, so consider utilizing Student or Employee counseling services if you need them.
Participation in the electoral process is important no matter how you vote. As a reminder, the State of Alabama provides online resources for voters including how to find your polling place or confirm your registration.
