Freedoms of Speech

The freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly are fundamental rights of all persons and are central to the mission of the University.

Demonstrations by Students

Students and student groups planning demonstrations need to consider policies and opportunities to make their events effective and safe, whether hosting a guest speaker, planning a march, or organizing a protest. Amplified sound, distribution of literature, filming on campus, and security are just some of the details that students may need to prepare for when holding a demonstration. As a neutral party, Student Affairs can help in coordinating logistics and ensuring compliance with university policies and the Institutional Rules. Email freespeech@uta.edu or call 817-272-2293 for consultation and to reserve space as needed for the demonstration.

Expression at UTA

Freedom of speech, expression and assembly are fundamental rights of all persons and are central to the mission of the university. In accordance with the University Policy on Free Speech, Expression, and Assembly, students, faculty, staff and the public have the right to assemble, speak and attempt to attract the attention of others. They also have the right to hear the speech of others when they choose to listen and to ignore the speech of others when they choose not to listen. Expressive activities are subject to time, place, and manner regulations.

Practice

  • Assembling peacefully
  • Participating in meaningful discussions
  • Handing out flyers and brochures
  • Allowing a ten-foot perimeter of clearance around university buildings and 25-foot clearance from the entrance to a building
  • Respecting other demonstrators' ability to engage in speech and displaying messages without blocking the view of participants or causing the speaker to not be heard
  • Following university policies and procedures

Avoid

  • Blocking entrances and exits
  • Creating disruptions in buildings or at university events
  • Vandalizing campus
  • Engaging in physical violence or inciting others to take violent action
  • Using amplified sound (sound with volume increased by any electronic, mechanical, or moto-powered means) without reservation or outside of the designated amplified sound areas
  • Attempting to force others to view or listen to a message by coercion, badgering or intimidation

Alternate Demonstration Formats

Some alternate forms of peaceful expression that UTA community members have engaged in include but are not limited to the following:

Online Formats

  • Use platforms like Microsfot Teams, Zoom or Google Meet for educational events, meetings, vigils or to host a speaker with an alternative point of view
  • Use an online petition platform such as change.org
  • Use social media to host campaigns and involve supporters

Statements

  • Lettering writing campaign to a speaker, public representative, or a UTA department or administrator
  • Writing an op-ed in campus or local publications such as the Shorthorn
  • Declarations of action and/or support by organizations

Other Formats

  • Donations or fundraising
  • Post signage at your home or dorm
  • Wearing of symbols
  • Contact the Graduate Student Council and/or Student Government
  • Contact your state and federal representatives and senators