Bias Incidents: Frequently Asked Questions

Relevant Excerpt

What about free speech and the First Amendment?

A bias incident that does not violate University policy, does not constitute conduct rising to the level of harassment, and is not a crime is considered free speech protected by the First Amendment—even if it is upsetting, insulting, or offensive to others.  The University cannot take disciplinary or other action against an individual for engaging in protected speech.  The University can provide support and resources to those impacted by a bias incident OACC and the Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement may retain general and statistical information about the incident  and may engage in voluntary educational conversations with members of the community about the incident.