Freedom of Expression and Civil Discourse
Information
A First Amendment guide and resources for the campus community
As a public institution, UW-Parkside is committed to protecting and promoting Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression as enumerated in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article I of the Wisconsin Constitution. Campus community members have a right to hear diverse perspectives and viewpoints and to express their own.
Universities of Wisconsin Freedom of Expression Video
While the First Amendment protects the right to express one's views, it allows the university to place reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on that expression.
The following UW System and UW-Parkside policies outline these reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions:
Regent Policy: Document 4-21 Commitment to Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression
UW System: Chapter 17 Student Non-Academic Misconduct
UW System: Chapter 18 Conduct on University Lands
UW System: Chapter 21 Use of University Facilities
UW-Parkside: Policy 6 Expressive Activity on Campus
AUDIENCE BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside embraces the principles of free speech and the resulting free exchange of ideas. To ensure that the speaker can be heard, the audience can hear and see, and the event is safe, the following guidelines have been set by the UW-Parkside administration in accordance with the Wisconsin administrative code:
Audience members must remain seated.
All isles, exits and passageways must be kept clear.
No sticks or standards.
No signs supported by sticks or stand shall be permitted in any assembly in a university building.
No visual obstructions.
No activities or signs that block the view of the audience shall be permitted.
Verbal and sound demonstration limitations.
Noise levels that impede the program’s process or the audience’s ability to hear shall not be permitted.
Objects may not be thrown.
The throwing of any objects will not be tolerated.
Force or violence notification.
Behavior or threats of behavior that impinge on the safety of others and/or endanger University property shall not be permitted.
An individual or a group of individuals who violate these guidelines of the Wisconsin administrative code will be removed and subject to arrest.
The University appreciates your cooperation.
Peaceful protesting resources
Attending a Protest (ACLU)
Tips for Protesting Peacefully and Safely (Human Rights Campaign)