SA.07.002 - Policy on Free Speech and Assembly

Table of Contents

• History
• Purpose
• Background
• Accountability
• Applicability
• Definition(s)
• Policy
• Exhibit(s)

History [top]

• Policy Number: SA.07.002
• Version: Original
• Drafted By: Trae cotton
• Approved By: Richard R. Rush
• Approval Date: 4/15/04
• Effective Date: 4/15/04
• Supercedes: N/A

 

Purpose [top]

In fulfilling its mission as an institution of higher learning, the University seeks to create a spirit of free inquiry and to promote discussions of a wide variety of issues, ideas and opinions, provided the views expressed are stated openly and subject to critical evaluation. The University will protect the rights of freedom of speech, expression, petition, and peaceful assembly as set forth in the U.S. Constitution, and as such, restraints on free inquiry will be held to a minimum and will be consistent with preserving an organized society in which peaceful democratic means for change are available.

Background [top]

This policy is necessary in order to establish and maintain a process whereby orderly demonstrations and protests may occur without disruption of the educational process.

Accountability [top]

The Vice President for Student Affairs, The Office of Student Development

Applicability [top]

All registered students at CSUCI 

Definition(s) [top]

N/A

Policy [top]

The University maintains its rights to regulate reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions concerning acts of expression and dissent. Any acts that are disruptive to the normal operations of the University including classes and University business or invade the rights of others will not be tolerated. The University has designated an area in the park Northeast of The University HUB as the Free Speech Area. For members of the campus community spontaneous use of this area is permitted for non-amplified activity. A recognized club or organization, faculty, or University division or department must sponsor non-campus community members.

The issuance of invitations to outside speakers by members of the campus community is encouraged and (except for constraints that may follow from the lack of availability of suitable facilities) is limited only in unusual circumstances when an invitation may be canceled by the President of the university or designee, if in his or her opinion the proposed event or speech constitutes a clear and present danger to the University.

This policy is not intended to prohibit or regulate free speech in the form of a guest lecture or speaker which is tied too, sponsored by or affiliated with a specific academic class or program.

In all instances, Free Speech and Assembly will be governed by the following guidelines:

1. Disruptive Activity – Obstruction, disruption, or interference with classes, research, administrative functions, or other University activities is not permitted. Likewise, infringement on the rights of others is prohibited.
2. Reasonable Access – It is important to provide reasonable access to and exit from any office, classroom, laboratory, or building. Likewise vehicular and pedestrian traffic should not be obstructed.
3. Peaceful Assembly  - Picketing or demonstrating in an orderly manner or distributing literature outside University buildings is acceptable with the appropriate approval from the Office of Student Development. Demonstrations inside campus buildings are prohibited. All applicable University policies on written materials apply as well.
4. Symbolic Protest – Displaying a sign, gesturing, wearing symbolic clothing, or otherwise protesting silently is permissible unless it is a disruptive activity or impedes access. Such actions should not interfere with others view or prevent them from being able to pay attention to other events, which may be occurring. In all instances signs may not be carried with the aid of wooden, plastic, or metal sticks, pipes or polls.
5. Noise – Making sustained or repeated noise in a manner that substantially interferes with a speaker’s ability to communicate his/her message is prohibited. Noise levels should not interfere with classes, meetings, or activities in progress.
6. Force or Violence – Any attempt to prevent a University activity or other lawful assembly by the threat or use of force or violence is prohibited.
7. Damage to Property – Care should always be taken to ensure that University and personal property is not damaged or destroyed.
8. Other University Regulations – All applicable University rules, regulations, policies, and guidelines should always be adhered to.

Exhibit(s) [top]

N/A