The purpose of the policy is to promote the free exchange of ideas and the safe and efficient operation of the College by:
- Fostering free speech, assembly, and other expressive activities at publicly accessible outdoor areas of any College campus, regardless of the viewpoint being expressed;
- Maintaining an appropriate educational and work environment for all persons present on College property; and
- Protecting and maintaining the security of College property, students, employees and visitors.
In developing and administering this policy, the College recognizes the freedoms guaranteed by the United States and Michigan constitutions, including freedom of speech and assembly. The College also recognizes the need to preserve and protect its property, students, guests and employees, and to ensure the effective operation of educational, business and related activities of the College.
Expressive activities on the College’s campus may be subject to reasonable regulation with regard to the time, place and manner of the activities. College employees will not consider the content or viewpoint of expressive activities when enforcing this policy, including by restricting students’ expression based on concerns about other person(s)’ negative reaction to the expression. No policy can address every possible activity or situation that may occur on College property, and the College reserves the right to address such situations as circumstances warrant.
Expressive activities carried out under this policy will not be considered to be speech made by, on behalf of, or endorsed by the College.
This policy applies on all of the College Campus.
“Expressive Activity” is defined as the carrying or displaying of signs or placards, leafleting, campaigning, marches, rallies, parades, demonstrations, protests, assemblies, speeches, circulation of petitions, and/or any public demonstration on College grounds.
The College reserves the right to stop any activity that substantially interferes with or disrupts the normal activities of the College; interferes with the educational process; or violates any of the conditions covering expressive activity under this policy. Any person who violates this policy may be subject to an order to leave College property. Employees in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline, up to and including termination. Students in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline under the applicable Code of Conduct.
Adopted by Board of Trustees 1/11/2018.