Boise State University recognizes and supports the rights of free expression and speech, and remains a place for the broadest expression of views.
The First Amendment protects freedom of expression, and guarantees protection for speech unless it presents a clear and present danger, is obscene, or is an imminent, “true” threat. Freedom of speech does not allow us to silence those with whom we disagree. One person’s speech does not enjoy greater weight than another’s speech such that it may consume or silence the opposing view.
Use your voice wisely and be aware of the ground rules.
Scenarios
Is this guest’s message protected by the First Amendment?
Yes.
Why are they allowed to be here?
A public university like Boise State is a public forum where free speech can occur. Nearly all speech, including speech that is annoying, rude, and offensive is protected by the First Amendment. Academic freedom is also at play here, which protects freedom of inquiry and research, freedom of teaching and freedom of expression and publication.
What can you do?
You can protest the guest speaker outside the building in a public area. You can use social media to protest and raise awareness about the speaker and your objections.
What can you NOT do?
You can’t disrupt the class or speaker. According to the Boise State student code of conduct, you have a responsibility not to disrupt class in expressing your views or in reacting to the views of others.
Is the behavior protected by the First Amendment?
Yes.
Why are they allowed to here?
Nearly all speech, including speech that is annoying, rude, and offensive is protected by the First Amendment. Boise State is a public university where plazas and sidewalks are public forums where free speech can occur.
What can you do?
Ignore them. Rebut them. Report it if you witness acts of hate, bias, discrimination or harassment.
What can you NOT do?
Do not touch any speaker, no matter how offensive they seem.
Is the speech protected by the First Amendment?
Yes.
Why are they allowed to be here?
Boise State facilities, such as auditoriums, classrooms and other buildings, are used to host speakers in public forums. Therefore, the university will not, and legally may not, discriminate based on content or viewpoint.
What can you do?
Ignore them and deny them an audience. You have the right to express your disagreement during the event, outside the venue, or on social media. Report it if you witness acts of hate, bias, discrimination or harassment.
What can you NOT do?
You may not disrupt or obstruct the presentation. You may not block attendees from entering into or exiting from the event. It is very important to note that you cannot touch any speaker, no matter how offensive you view their speech. If you do, you may be subject to student disciplinary action or arrest.
What can you do?
- Circulate a petition or letter voicing your concerns.
- Request to meet with university officials to discuss your concerns.
- Engage in peaceful protest in a public space.
What can you NOT do?
- You may not engage in an occupation/sit-in of an office or other non-public space in a university building.
- You may not block traffic into or out of the room, floor or building.
- You may not obstruct or disrupt university staff or officials while they are fulfilling their duties.
- You may not engage in tagging or mark university facilities with graffiti.
If you do any of the above, you may be subject to:
- Student disciplinary action or arrest for trespassing
- Student disciplinary action for obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administration or other university activities
- Student disciplinary action for destruction or damage to university property or arrest for vandalism/graffiti