SA.07.006 - Policy on Free Speech and Assembly
Purpose
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
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
The Vice President for Student Affairs and the Office of Student Leadership and Development
Applicability
All registered students at CSUCI
Policy
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 to, 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Leadership and Development. Demonstrations inside campus buildings are prohibited. All applicable University policies on written materials apply as well.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Damage to Property – Care should always be taken to ensure that University and personal property is not damaged or destroyed.
- Other University Regulations – All applicable University rules, regulations, policies, and guidelines should always be adhered to.