North Dakota State University embraces its role in upholding the First Amendment, and the free exchange of ideas is welcomed and valued at NDSU.  Intellectual freedom and civil discourse are essential parts of a college education and a democratic society.  NDSU is committed to the protection and exercise of the freedom of speech for all, and must remain content neutral in decisions related to the expression of ideas on campus.

Freedom of speech is the right to articulate opinions and ideas without interference, retaliation or punishment from the government, which includes NDSU and its employees as a state agency. The term “speech” is interpreted broadly and includes spoken and written words as well as symbolic speech (e.g., what a person wears, reads, performs, protests, and more).

The First Amendment protects speech even when the ideas put forth are thought to be illogical, offensive, immoral or hateful. Public universities such as North Dakota State University are subject to the constitutional restrictions set forth in the First Amendment, as well as by state/federal law, and may not infringe on an individual’s freedom of speech.

Freedom of speech does not mean that individuals may say whatever they wish, wherever they wish. The university may restrict speech that falsely defames a specific individual, constitutes a genuine threat or harassment, is intended and likely to provoke imminent unlawful action, or otherwise violates the law. In addition, the university may reasonably regulate the time, place and manner of speech to ensure it does not disrupt the ordinary activities of the university.

The Dean of Students Office is charged with assisting individuals and groups who wish to exercise their rights to free speech, expression, and assembly.  We will answer related questions and facilitate communication with other campus partners. You may also read a message about free speech here. 

The links below are designed to provide resources related to free speech on campus.  NDSU’s full policy can be found in the NDSU Policy Manual, Section 154, and should be reviewed thoroughly when planning an event.

• Planning an Event
• Protected vs. Unprotected Speech
• Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions
• Free Speech FAQ’s 

Content adapted from:

• https://freespeech.iastate.edu/faq
• Chemerinsky, E., & Gillman, H. (2018). Free speech on campus. Yale University Press.