UCLA addresses student conduct concerns after protest disruption at law school event

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 03:52:00 +0200

During a Federalist Society event at UCLA School of Law on April 21, 2026, Department of Homeland Security general counsel James Percival faced a protest of more than 150 students, who reportedly made threats and used profane language. Following the disruption, UCLA assistant dean Bayrex Martí warned the Federalist Society president against publicly identifying the protesters, citing potential consequences under the Student Code of Conduct. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) criticized the university, stating that public event attendees have no expectation of privacy and accusing UCLA of applying a double standard, as protesters have publicly mocked conservative students online. UCLA defended the event, emphasizing its commitment to free speech and academic freedom, noting that the law school coordinated with campus safety to ensure the event proceeded safely. Percival described the protest as unpleasant but emphasized his duty to appear despite potential threat