Advocacy Guidelines at UCLA

Due to the University’s 501(c)(3) status and because we are a state entity, there are legal restrictions around the types of political activities campus employees can engage in on behalf of UCLA and with university resources. When engaging on issues, generally informational activities are permissible while campaign activities on behalf of candidates or ballot initiatives are not.

Follow these dos and don’ts to be successful in your advocacy efforts.

UCLA Advocacy

Dos:

  • Engage in local, state and federal legislative advocacy in coordination with UCLA’s Office of Government and Community Relations to promote and protect our core mission of teaching, research, and public service. UCLA only engages in advocacy once the UC Office of the President (UCOP) adopts a formal position on legislation.
  • Join the UC Advocacy Network and stand up for values and policies that are fundamental to our mission. Sign up today to learn more about opportunities to engage in policy change, advocacy trainings, events and more.
  • Coordinate with UCLA Government and Community Relations (GCR) about how best to share your expertise, such as providing testimony or public comment during a hearing, or sharing your research or position with a decision-maker via email or in a meeting. Let us know if a Congressional or state legislative office contacts you for your input and/or to testify at a hearing. GCR is here to help you!
  • Connect with UCLA Government and Community Relations staff before:
    • Meeting with elected officials or their staff in Los Angeles, Sacramento, or Washington D.C. on UCLA business
    • Inviting elected officials to UCLA events, both on or off campus


Don’ts:

  • Don’t endorse or oppose legislation in your UCLA capacity without UC taking a position and campus authorization – when in doubt, check with GCR.

  • Don’t contribute to candidates or state ballot measures on behalf of UCLA.

  • Don’t distribute statements in support of candidates or ballot measures influencing people to support or oppose a measure or candidate on behalf of UCLA.

  • Don’t link to campaign websites from ucla.edu accounts.

  • Don’t risk the consequences, which could include revocation of UC’s tax-exempt status; criminal and civil penalties for misuse of state resources; the need to personally reimburse the university for improper use of campus funds; discredit research; and hurt UCLA’s reputation and your advocacy efforts.

Personal Advocacy

Dos:

  • You may engage in personal political and advocacy activity in your private capacity (i.e. apart from your role as a UCLA employee) such as writing op-eds, engaging in social media, making phone calls, and speaking at events – on your own time and using personal resources. Offer a disclaimer if appropriate, such as “I am a professor employed at UCLA, speaking today on my own behalf” or “My title is for identification purposes only; this endorsement is made in a personal capacity and does not represent the views of the university.”

  • You may attend town halls and forums on your own time and ask questions about an issue you care about. Let your representative know you are an engaged constituent, and offer your expertise.

  • You may join professional advocacy organizations that represent your interests or profession to support issues you care about on your own time.

  • You may donate to and personally support political candidates with your own funds.

  • Follow advocacy best practices: tell your unique story, keep your message simple and succinct (avoid academic/scientific jargon), advocate for issues in your district, and make a clear ask.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t use university resources for partisan political activities, including UCLA email, copy machines and printers, stationery/letterhead, facilities (classrooms, libraries, meeting space), financial accounts, name, insignia, logo, and/or seal.

  • Don’t use paid time for individual advocacy efforts (use vacation or leave if engaging during work hours).

  • Don’t give the appearance of acting on behalf of the campus (e.g. using UCLA letterhead) unless specifically authorized to do so.

  • Don’t distribute or display campaign materials on campus, including public ratings of candidates.

  • Don’t invite candidates to promote their campaign on campus.

  • Don’t create any confusion about your official UCLA vs. private role.

Guidelines regarding the restrictions that apply to UC’s participation in ballot initiative campaigns are outlined on the UC website.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact GCR at advocacy@support.ucla.edu.


UCOP Advocacy Resources

Please note: This website contains practical advice. These practices are advisable because following them will help you avoid having to answer questions and/or respond to records requests regarding your private political activities. These recommendations err on the side of being conservative about use of campus resources and do not supersede any UC or campus policies, such as the campus Acceptable Use Policy.