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Free Speech

"CONGRESS SHALL MAKE NO LAW RESPECTING AN ESTABLISHMENT OF RELIGION, OR PROHIBITING THE FREE EXERCISE THEREOF; OR ABRIDGING THE FREEDOM OF SPEECH, OR OF THE PRESS; OR THE RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE PEACEABLY TO ASSEMBLE, AND TO PETITION THE GOVERNMENT FOR A REDRESS OF GRIEVANCES."

-The First Amendment of the United States Constitution

FreedomSpeechDef
EWU Policy
Washington State Policy

-Free Speech FAQs

What is protected under the First Amendment? Expand

The first amendment protects: freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and freedom of petition. These freedoms are however subject to limitations. Notably laws against defamation, and incitement of violence or rebellion. For example it is still illegal to block polling stations even though we have freedom of assembly.

At what point does speech become harassment? Expand

There is no clear line that defines when something passes from utilizing the right of free speech to becoming harassment. Harassment is generally assessed by asking the following questions:
1) Is is specifically targeted at a particular person or group?
2) Is it a repeating occurrence?
3) Is the speech intimidating or threatening?

Does the First Amendment protect civil disobedience? Expand

No, the first amendment does not protect civil disobedience on or off campus. The incitement of violence and rebellion is specifically referenced in the first amendment as not being protected or allowed.

What are some types of speech are not protected by the First Amendment? Expand

• Speech (or actions) that could be deemed a true and immediate physical threat.

• Speech that calls for illegal activity.

• Harassment in an educational institution on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion.

Can I protest an event or demonstration on campus? Expand

Yes, so long as you do so peacefully.

  • You may not block or prevent the movement of a person or group.
  • You must follow the direction of law enforcement.
  • You may not call for violence or illegal activities.
  • If others are engaging in illegal activities you should remove yourself from the location.
Can I drown out the words of a speaker I disagree with? Expand

No, it would not be freedom of speech if it was censored/blocked.

How do First Amendment rights apply to events at public universities compared to events at private ones? Expand

The first amendment must be upheld by public universities. Public Universities are government entities. Private schools are not controlled by the state, those schools’ administrations can generally impose whatever restrictions they wish on speech or on visitors to campus.

Eastern Washington University is a public university.

What are “time, place, and manner” restrictions? Expand

The supreme court has ruled that public entities (such as EWU) have the right to regulate the “time, place, and manner” of speech for the safety and functionality of the entity.

Public universities may not block a controversial speaker but they may make reasonable restrictions to the time, place, and manner of an event or demonstration.

What is the EWU Student Conduct Code? Expand

The Student Conduct Code sets forth the standards of conduct expected from students from the time they are accepted as a student until their graduation, including during breaks. You may view the conduct code online here.

For questions or concerns regarding the student conduct code please contact Student Rights & Responsibilities.

-Support Resouces

Counseling & Wellness Services
Multicultural Center
Bias Reporting
ICARE Student Referral Form
Pride Center
All Reporting Options

-Fact Checking

FactCheck-100

Fact Checking Resources

 procon.org • snopes.com • factcheck.org • truthorfiction.com

 

 

Primary Sidebar

dosewu

dosewu
Hey Eags & Friends! Considering the benefits of Gr Hey Eags & Friends! Considering the benefits of Greek Life? 

This Thursday we will kickoff our 2022-23 Eagle Connect Series with Elise Brehmer and I talking about sorority and fraternity life at EWU.

While each live event will be recorded and saved to our Eagle Connect Series, if you tune in live you will have a opportunity to get your questions answered! 

The Eagle Connect Live series will occur every Thursday and spotlight a different campus resource/service/opportunity! For 15-20 minutes, the guest for the week and I will talk about why you should reach out and how you can connect. We will also answer your questions 😉. This is one way for you to get to know names and faces across campus.

We hope you will join us and spread the word! 🦅♥️🦅♥️

#goeags #eagleconnect #ewu #ewulife #campuslife #studentconnect  #sfl #gogreek
Y’all-while I am not sure I will ever reach Inst Y’all-while I am not sure I will ever reach Instagram perfection, I am working hard to level up! Just a few reasons to follow this account, what you can expect and why you should check back regularly! Know you can reach out anytime, DM me with questions, or let us know how we can provide information that matters for your success at EWU. 

Going to be a great year ahead and cheering you on 🦅♥️🦅♥️! 

P.S. Is it time for an Eastern Gear giveaway? Let me know in the comments 😉

#goeags #levelingup #newacademicyear #eaglife #eagleconnect #adulting101 #studentsuccess #deansdogs #campuslife #ewu
Good luck to all semester students starting your t Good luck to all semester students starting your term next week! 🦅❤️

#ewu #goeags #easternwashingtonuniversity #cheney #fallsemester #academiccalendar #ewuproud
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