UNC enforces clear bag policy for graduation, will require graduates to show ID card
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has announced a clear bag policy and other restrictions for its upcoming commencement ceremonies.
Posted — UpdatedUNC said all graduates will need to present their UNC One Card to enter the seating area in Kenan Stadium for Saturday's graduation ceremony.
A clear bag policy will be in place for all graduation ceremonies in all venues, applying to the main ceremony in Kenan Stadium, the Doctoral Hooding ceremony and all school, departmental and other smaller group ceremonies.
The university is encouraging guests to leave bags at home, but the following items are allowed at commencement venues:
- Any clear plastic or vinyl bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″, including gallon freezer bags.
- Small clutch purses no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″.
- Necessary medical items following inspection at entry gates.
- Up to two unopened 20-ounce or smaller bottles of water per person and empty drink containers that can be filled up at drinking fountains.
The school also listed the following prohibited items: Alcoholic beverages, artificial noise makers, baby seats, large bags, balloons, banners, flags and signs (larger than 8 ½” x 11”), signs on sticks or other devices, beach balls, coolers or containers, explosives, fireworks, folding chairs, food and beverages (except sealed plastic water bottles), illegal drugs, laser pointers, pets (except service animals), strollers (noncollapsible), umbrellas, weapons of any kind and any other item that in the judgment of management staff poses a safety hazard or detracts from the ability of others to enjoy the event.
The university also addressed free speech laws and policies in Monday's announcement.
"The North Carolina Restore and Preserve Free Speech Act and the UNC System Board of Governors Policy on Free Speech and Free Expression provides a range of possible disciplinary actions for those who substantially interfere with another person’s protected free speech rights," the university wrote. "This includes protests that limit the ability of others to hear a speaker.
"The university respects the rights of peaceful protesters. While anyone — including students, faculty and staff — may gather and exercise their rights to free speech, state law and the Board of Governors policy prohibit significant disruption of University operations. The University’s Policy on Demonstrative Events provides a list of prohibited items and actions for demonstrations. We expect all campus community members to comply, and those who do not will be subject to arrest."
UNC students that WRAL News spoke with on Wednesday said they understand the university's changes.
"I am just hoping everything goes well, everyone stays safe and everyone has a good time," Keshay Ramesh said.
This weekend marks the first real graduation ceremony for most students. Most had their high school ceremonies canceled or significantly altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"So, being a part of a bigger community and graduating with the rest of my cohorts is going to be really interesting and really fun.”
On Wednesday, WRAL News reached out to Duke University about possible changes but did not hear back.
The ceremony will be livestreamed on several platforms for virtual participation or viewing. The link will be posted the day of the ceremony.
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