Information for guests attending a graduation ceremony

We are delighted to welcome you to the University of Edinburgh's graduation ceremonies, where we will be celebrating the academic achievements of our students. As we gather to mark this special occasion, we want to ensure that all attendees have a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience.

Graduation ceremonies are a time for celebration and reflection, but they can also be a focal point for individuals or groups to express their views or opinions. While we respect the right to freedom of expression, we also have a responsibility to ensure that the ceremony remains a respectful occasion for all attendees.

On occasion, protest activity may take place during the ceremony, and we want to inform you of what to expect and how to respond. Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of all attendees, and we kindly request that guests do not engage with or respond to any protest activity that may occur.

In the unlikely event of a protest, please be assured that University staff and security personnel will be managing the situation and ensure that the ceremony proceeds with minimal disruption. However, we also rely on the cooperation and understanding of our guests to help maintain a respectful and peaceful atmosphere.

If you encounter any protest activity during the ceremony, we encourage you to:
•    Remain calm and composed
•    Avoid engaging with or responding to protesters
•    Do not participate in or encourage any counter-protest activity
•    Follow the instructions of university staff and security personnel
•    Focus on celebrating the achievements of our graduates and enjoying the ceremony

By not engaging with or responding to protest activity, you can help to ensure that the ceremony remains a positive and enjoyable experience for all attendees. We understand that this may be a challenging situation for some guests, but we appreciate your cooperation and understanding in this matter.

Additionally, we want to assure you that we have a safe space available for anyone who may need to step away from the ceremony due to feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable. Our staff and support services will be available to provide assistance and support to anyone who needs it. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you require any help or guidance.

Our graduation ceremonies are a celebration of academic achievement and a significant milestone in the lives of our students. We are committed to ensuring that this special occasion is marked with dignity, respect, and joy, and we look forward to sharing it with you.

If you have any concerns or questions about expected behaviours during the ceremony, please speak with a member of our team.  We are always happy to help and provide guidance.

Lucy Evans
Associate Principal and Deputy Secretary Students