Free Speech: How to Express Your Message if You Disagree

Find out how to express your message if you disagree with the content of a student-sponsored event or program.

If you're planning an event that could be controversial, see Controversial Student Programs.

• Before, after, or during the program

  Outside the building, room, or event:

  • Peaceful protest or picketing with leaflets, petitions, singing, chanting, or signs is allowed. Sticks or pickets are not allowed.
  • You cannot block entrances or exits, impede pedestrian or vehicle traffic, or prevent others from entering, hearing, seeing, or leaving the program or speech.
  • You cannot use amplified sound, except as allowable through university sound policies, or disrupt other university functions or activities (such as nearby classes) or other programs using reserved space.

• During the program

  Inside the room or event:

  • Peaceful protest and limited vocal response (clapping, calling questions or comments) may be permitted if they do not create major disturbance or prevent the speaker from communicating to the audience.
  • Audience members may choose to leave the event as long as they do not obstruct the presentation.
  • If you repeatedly disrupt or obstruct the presentation, and fail to comply with the directions of university officials to cease disruption or leave the area, you will violate the university's code of conduct and/or the law. These are grounds for discipline or prosecution.

• In response to a program

  Before, after, or during the program, you can respond to offensive speech by sponsoring a separate presentation or program featuring alternative viewpoints, such as a:

  • Teach-in
  • Public forum
  • Vigil
  • Counter-demonstration
  • Exhibit

• If you are confronted with offensive speech or displays in a public area

  • Walk a safe distance away, and do not respond physically.
  • State your point of view clearly and calmly.
  • Seek assistance from a university official or staff member if you feel you are being singled out or targeted.

• At any time

  • Write guest editorials or send letters to newspapers, political representatives, groups, individuals, administrators, or responsible parties.
  • Lend support, reassurance, and empathy to others who may be hurt by offensive messages.
  • Be sure to comply with all university policies and local, state, and federal regulations.