At Washington State University, freedom of speech and expression are essential to who we are. We aspire to be an affirming community that encourages respect and learning, where we can engage in diverse viewpoints. Throughout the academic year and beyond, students, faculty, and staff are likely to encounter those who share viewpoints different from their own.
This page provides high-level guidance for free speech activities at WSU Spokane. More information can be found on WSU’s Freedom of Speech website.
Free Speech Rights for Students and Employees
Student Speech at WSU Spokane
Students may engage in political and ideological speech, except when doing so results in disruption or obstruction to normal university operations or when the speech constitutes prohibited speech.
Employee Speech and Workplace Expression
WSU employees, like all citizens, are protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of speech. This protection extends to speech made by government employees in the workplace, including speech on matters of public concern. However, there are also reasonable restrictions and limitations on speech in the workplace that employees should be aware of.
Campus Events and Free Speech Activities
Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions
Consistent with the law, WSU may impose reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on speech activities to ensure that speech rights are exercised in a manner that respects the rights of others, maintains the safety and order of our campus community, and keeps the university functioning.
If you have safety concerns about a speech event, don’t hesitate to contact Campus Security at 509-358-7995.
Student Group Free Speech Events
Student groups interested in hosting free speech events or activities should contact the ELC Hub for planning assistance at spokane.elc@wsu.edu.
Non-University Groups and Free Speech Rules
In accordance with WAC 504-33-025, non-university groups and individuals may use the university’s limited public forum areas for those activities protected by the First Amendment. However, they may not use the interior of any university facility and must provide notice to WSU Spokane Campus Safety and Security and the Division of Student Affairs five business days prior to the intended use of the desired limited public forum area.
Free Speech Resources and Policies
Campus Resources
- Compliance and Civil Rights (CCR) reviews and investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct. CCR is an excellent resource for learning about your options, even if you do not wish to formally report anything or move forward with an investigation process.
- Center for Community Standards (CCS) reviews and investigates student misconduct. CCS can help students understand WSU’s community standards and the process for when those standards are violated.
- The Office of the University Ombuds works to protect the interests, rights, and privileges of students, staff, and faculty at all levels of university operations and programs.
Policies and References
- BPPM 20.35 – Use of University Property
- BPPM 50.30 – Workplace Violence
- EP15 – Policy Prohibiting Discrimination and Harassment
- EP45 – University Ethics Policy
- RCW 42.52.180 – Use of public resources for political campaigns
- WAC 504-31 – Conduct on Campus
- WAC 504-33 – Facility Use Rules for First Amendment/Free Speech Activities
