Campus Speech

Freedom of speech is a fundamental American freedom and human right, and no place should this right be more valued and protected than on America’s college and university campuses. Ƶ’s mission is to educate students and advance knowledge, a mission best accomplished in an environment where an exchange of ideas, even competing ideas, is not only allowed but encouraged. From this intellectual complexity and vitality, our University thrives and delivers on the promise of education.  

It is critical, therefore, that we preserve this freedom of speech, thought and inquiry. 

An image of a Black male student with a flag draped around his shoulders. An image of a Black female giving a lecture A white male student talking in a group. A white female student with a large group outside.

What is free speech?

Free speech, or Freedom of Speech, is the right to freely express opinions in words or actions. It is constitutionally protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Freedom of speech is also recognized as a human right under . 

What is the First Amendment?
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is contained in the . It expressly prohibits the United States Congress from making laws “respecting an establishment of religion,” prohibiting the free exercise of religion, infringing freedom of speech, infringing freedom of the press, limiting the right to assemble peaceably, or limiting the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances. The protections of the First Amendment are extended to state governments and public university campuses by the Fourteenth Amendment.

What about hate speech?

One of the University's central interests is to promote a diverse and tolerant society and create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all members of our community. As such, we cannot condone speech (or action) that is injurious, offensive or demeaning, especially when directed at a particular group or class of people. 

While protected by the First Amendment, hate speech is antithetical to our mission, and any expression that constitutes a true threat, incitement to imminent lawless action, targeted discriminatory harassment, or defamation can be deemed unacceptable and subject to redress.

As a public institution, Ƶ has adopted our Principles of Ƶ statement in an effort to promote a civil environment where all members of the community are heard and differing perspectives are respected. 

Read Ƶ's Principles of Ƶ Statement >

Associated resources

§  Ƶ Student Code of Conduct

§  Ƶ Statement on Academic Freedom

§  Ƶ Statement on Becoming a More Inclusive Ƶ

§  Ƶ Policy on Demonstrations