Freedom of Speech and Expression
海角社区 is dedicated to open dialogue and creating a supportive atmosphere where all members of our community can flourish. However, we cannot tolerate threats, violence, harassment, vandalism, or intimidation. Civil discourse is the collective responsibility of faculty, staff, students, and our broader community.
The right of all students and individuals to seek knowledge, debate ideas, form opinions, and freely express their views is recognized, both as an individual right and as an important part of the University culture. This right must be exercised in a manner which will not interfere with the same rights and freedoms of others. Likewise, the right or freedom of peaceful assembly is recognized and shall be protected. Meetings, assemblies, picketing activities, protests, and gatherings that do not disrupt the orderly functioning of the University and related activities qualify as peaceful and are therefore protected.
Below, the University has compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers related to freedom of speech and freedom of expression and applicable regulations and laws, as well as consequences for non-compliance.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
What is protected speech?
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects freedom of speech, including spoken and written speech, as well as symbolic speech and expressive activity. However, the University will not tolerate non-protected speech, including threats, violence, harassment, intimidation, incitement, or vandalism or destruction of property.
Do faculty, students, staff and visitors enjoy freedom of expression?
Yes. All faculty, students, staff and visitors are protected under the First Amendment and may exercise their right to freedom of speech.
Is there speech that is not protected by the First Amendment?
Yes. The First Amendment does not protect obscenity, incitement or acts of violence, specific threats of physical violence or intimidation, incitement to break the law, the destruction of property, or harassment as defined by law and University policies.
KNOW THE RULES
Does the University have the right to place reasonable limitations on speech activities?
Yes. Freedom of speech and expression must be exercised in a manner which will not interfere with the same rights and freedoms of others in their enjoyment of the benefits of the programs offered by this University, or their lawful use of University facilities, including ingress and egress. Such rights may be exercised subject to applicable laws, rules