Free Speech / Civil Disobedience

Freedom of thought, inquiry, speech and lawful assembly are fundamental rights of all persons. These rights include the freedom to express opinions; to hear, express and debate various views, no matter how unpopular; and to voice criticism. Free speech is uniquely important to the University as it brings about a free interchange of ideas integral to the University’s fundamental mission of teaching, research and public service. All sworn personnel are bound by law to protect the Constitutional rights of all persons including the rights of free speech and assembly.

Protests and civil disobedience have played an historic role on the University campuses and in bringing important and beneficial changes within society and in the development of our democracy. However, civil disobedience is not protected speech under the Constitution. The Constitution does not guarantee any right to engage in civil disobedience – which, by its very definition, involves the violation of laws or regulations – without incurring consequences. Civil disobedience may have a negative effect on the protected interests of others and may interfere with University business or threaten public safety, or University assets, in ways that require the University to act to protect those other interests.

It is the duty of all sworn personnel to defend the first amendment rights of individuals on University grounds, while at the same time minimizing disruption of normal activities within the University. All sworn personnel are to protect all persons from physical injury as well as defend the University from property damage caused by civil disobedience. Officers may use objectively reasonable and lawful force per policy and law in order to accomplish these goals.