UNCW is pausing the painting of its two spirit rocks and “freedom of expression events” after confrontations arose last week. Painting on both spirit rocks, located outside the Fisher Student Union and Wagoner Dining Hall, will not be allowed. Any currently scheduled freedom of expression permits issued for University Amphitheater and Wagoner lawn will also be rescheduled at a later date. “UNCW’s decision to temporarily pause use of the campus spirit rocks and scheduled freedom of expression events is part of an effort to de-escalate tensions and prioritize campus safety,” UNCW spokesperson Andrea Weaver. UNCW says students continue to have a variety of avenues for free expression, including displays under UNCW Policy 02.360 and 02.370 Policy on Demonstrations.