As a private, comprehensive, teaching-oriented institution of higher learning, committed to service in the public interest, lifelong learning, and the enhancement of the quality of life, Monmouth University recognizes the importance and encourages the free interchange of ideas and the expression of disparate points of view. At the same time, the University expects such expression to be carried out responsibly and peacefully, without infringing the rights of others, and in accordance with University policies and procedures, as well as local, state, and federal laws.
In order to promote the free expression of all views, the campus is open to any speaker whom students or members of the faculty have invited and for whom official arrangements to speak have been made with the University. The right of free speech in a university also includes the right to acts of peaceful dissent, protests in peaceable assembly, and orderly speech activities which include picketing and the distribution of leaflets (individually referred to as “Speech Activity” and collectively referred to as “Speech Activities”). Speech Activities are permitted on the campus, subject to approval as to schedule, location and cost, unless, or until, they disrupt regular and essential operations of the University or significantly infringe on the rights of others, particularly the right to listen to a speech or lecture.
All individuals and groups planning to engage in Speech Activities should seek approval from the Office of Student Life. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance with respect to Speech Activities occurring on University property and the contiguous area.
The University reserves the right to limit the time, place, and manner of the Speech Activities and requires that such speech occur in an orderly fashion and with the identification of the sponsoring individual(s) or group(s) and so as to avoid:
- Interference with the University’s mission, functions, or activities;
- Interference with another event by hindering audience view or opportunity to hear the event;
- Interference with the free flow of traffic to, from, and within the University campus;
- Endangerment to the health, safety, or well-being of others; or
- Damage to or destruction of University property or the property of others.
Outside individuals or groups who wish to participate in a Speech Activity should contact the Monmouth University Police Department, who will work with the Office of Student Life to determine whether approval for the proposed activity shall be granted, and if approved, to arrange a location, date and time. . The University reserves the right to limit the location and size of the activity area to that which is suitable under the circumstances, including but not limited to expected attendance.
All participants must comply with the directions of University officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties.
When Speech Activities impinge on the rights and freedoms of others, the University will take action under this policy to address this behavior. The University reserves the right to terminate any Speech Activities under this policy and remove from the location those individuals or groups who violate any of the provisions of this policy.
Please refer to the portal to obtain a copy of the entire Policy on Campus Demonstrations, Disruptions and Gatherings.