University of Georgia
Policy on Freedom of Expression

No rights are more highly regarded at the University of Georgia than the first amendment guarantees of freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and the right to assemble peaceably.  The University of Georgia remains firmly committed to affording every member of the University community the opportunity to engage in peaceful and orderly protests and demonstrations which do not disrupt the operation of the University.  However, such opportunities must be provided on an equal basis and adhere to the basic principle of the University’s being neutral to the content of any public demonstration.  In order to achieve this objective, while at the same time insuring that the University fulfills its educational mission, the University has the responsibility to regulate the time, place, and manner of expression.  Through such regulation, the University can assure equal opportunity for all persons, preserve order within the University community, protect and preserve University property, and provide a secure environment to individuals exercising freedom of expression.

The following provisions and regulations shall apply to faculty, staff, students, student organizations, and visitors:

A.  Speeches and Demonstrations.  The areas designated as “Free Expression Areas” for speeches and demonstrations are the Tate Student Center Plaza and the Memorial Hall Plaza, which are generally available for this purpose between 8:00 am and 9:00 pm, Monday through Friday.  Use of these areas for speaking, demonstrating and other forms of expression will be scheduled through the Department of Campus Life to best accommodate all interested users.

Other areas of the campus and other times are occasionally used for speeches and demonstrations.  Such campus gatherings must be approved by the Director of Campus Life at least 48 hours in advance and receive a permit for the gathering.

B.  Distribution of Written Material.  Non-commercial pamphlets, handbills, circulars, newspapers, magazines and other written materials may be distributed on a person-to-person basis in open areas outside of building and other closed structures on the campus.  No stand, table or booth shall be used in distribution except in the Tate Student Center Plaza and the Memorial Hall Plaza and only with the permission of the Department of Campus Life.  The University maintains a position of neutrality as to the content of any written material distributed on the campus under this policy.

The distribution of commercial materials and publications is covered by the Campus Solicitation Policy.

C.  Marches.   Marches may take place on streets and sidewalks of the campus.  Plans for an event of this nature must be approved by the Director of Campus Life at least 48 hours in advance.

D.  Provisions.  In order that persons exercising freedom of expression not interfere with the operation of the University or the rights of others, the following will apply without exception to any form of expression and will be used to evaluate any plans requiring approval.  Reasonable limitations may be placed on the time, place and manner of speeches, demonstrations, distribution of written material, and marches in order to serve the interest of health and safety, prevent disruption of the educational process, and protect against the invasion of the rights of others.

1. Events which may obstruct vehicular, pedestrian or other traffic must be approved at least 48 hours in advance by the Department of Student Activities.
2. Use of sound amplification on campus is regulated and must be approved at least 48 hours in advance by the Department of Student Activities.
3. There must be no obstruction of entrances or exits to buildings.
4. There must be no interference with educational activities inside or outside of buildings.
5. There must be no impediment of passersby or other disruptions of normal activities.
6. There must be no interference with scheduled University ceremonies, events or activities.
7. Malicious or unwarranted damage or destruction of property owned or operated by the University, or property belonging to students, faculty, staff or guests of the University, is prohibited.  Persons or organizations causing such damage may be held financially responsible.
8. Persons or organizations responsible for a demonstration or other expressive event must remove all resulting structures, signs and litter from the area at the end of the event.  If this is not accomplished, persons or organizations responsible for the event may be held financially responsible.
9. No camping is allowed and temporary structures (tents, etc.) are prohibited.
10. There must be compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and University policies, rules and regulations.

Questions about this policy may be directed to:
Willie Banks, Director of Campus Life,
325 Tate Student Center, Athens, GA 30602. 
Phone: 706-542-7774

Revision date 1/18/08