The University has developed these guidelines to assist members of the SU community in conducting protests, rallies, and demonstrations (hereafter, “protests”) safely, peacefully, and in full compliance with the policy on protests:

Protests and Demonstrations: The University recognizes the right of students to engage in peaceful protest over issues of University, local, national, or international interest. Protests must be civil and peaceful, not disrupt the University’s educational mission or operations, not violate state law or University policies, and not deprive any persons of a legal right, disturb any persons in the enjoyment of a legal right, nor deprive any persons of access to university experiences. Protestors shall not obstruct streets, sidewalks, elevators, aisles, hallways, entrances, or exits to which the community has access, or any other place for the passage of persons, vehicles, or conveyances. 72-hour advance notice to the Dean of Students of any protest likely to involve a physical gathering is required. That notice must include the date, time, location, purpose of the protest, and estimated number of participants. The University reserves the right to limit the time, place, and manner of any protest, including the location of any physical protest to a particular area of campus in order to assure the physical safety and rights of all members of the University community. Protests may not interfere with academic classes, examinations, or other essential University functions. Participants must comply with all instructions from University officials and campus security. The use of amplified sound is restricted and requires prior approval. Student organizers are responsible for ensuring the area is left clean and free of debris. Any damage to University property or excessive clean-up costs may be charged to the organizers. (Source: Student Handbook, “Administrative Policies”)

Disruption of University Operations

Protests may not be held in locations where classes are in session or University business is being conducted, and may not materially interfere with the planned operations of the University, including academic classes and projects, daily operations, and special events. The “heckler’s veto” is not an acceptable form of protest.

Responsibility for Visitors

Visitors to campus are not afforded the same rights as members of the SU community. Visitors invited to campus by students, faculty, or staff must sign a visitor agreement. Visitors may be asked to leave campus at any time if their behavior or presence is deemed to pose any type of harm to the University or members of its community. Students, faculty, and staff are responsible for the behavior of their invited guests. Students, faculty, and staff participating in a protest should carry their SU ID card.

Signage

Signs used in a protest may not exceed 22” by 28”. Larger signs can be visual obstructions and can reduce police officers’ ability to maintain a safe environment. Signs must be hand-held and may not be attached to any form of pole or stick.

Related University Policy

Anyone planning a protest is encouraged to review the Student Code of Conduct to ensure that other University policies are not violated in the course of the protest.