Exercising Free Speech

UC Santa Cruz is committed to assuring that all persons may exercise the constitutionally protected rights of free expression, speech, and assembly. Further, the University seeks to maintain a safe environment for the free expression of ideas and ideals.

The ongoing opportunity for the expression of a variety of viewpoints is at the core of this commitment. As campus citizens, it is imperative that we live up to the responsibilities that accompany these rights.

The right of free speech in a university includes the right to acts of peaceful dissent, protests in peaceable assembly, and orderly demonstrations which including picketing and the distribution of leaflets. These are permitted on the UC Santa Cruz campus, subject to approval as to time, place and manner, unless or until, they disrupt regular and essential operations of the University or significantly infringe on the rights of others.

For more information on expressing your message, please write to deanofstudents@ucsc.edu

Be Effective

The first step to planning and executing a successful and effective event is to be informed on relevant campus policies:

• Your primary resource is the Student Policies and Regulations Handbook. Please review the Student Policies and Regulations Handbook for specific information related to public areas on campus and use of amplified sound.  Relevant policies can be found in Sections 30.00 and 40.00.
• Other resources to consider and consult include: The UCSC Major Events Policy, SOAR policies related to student organization events and the Principles of Community.
• There are a number of resources available to assist you in understanding and applying these policies, as well as planning your event. In addition, for information on public speech areas in your college communities, and to reserve space, please contact your college office, or the Dean of Students office at 831-459-4446.