Student Handbook: Right to Dissent and Demonstration Policy

Relevant Excerpt

The rights to demonstration and dissent are essential to academic freedom and scholarly pursuits. Demonstrations against or in favor of a particular position, action or situation are permitted as long as the activity does not restrict others’ movement or access to campus activities. Occidental College is an institution guided by a deep conviction of the worth and dignity of the advancement of knowledge. It encourages the free pursuit of learning and makes every reasonable effort to foster honest academic conduct. It respects and defends free inquiry by its constituents

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As noted, Occidental College respects the rights of free speech and peaceable assembly and supports their exercise as integral to academic freedom and scholarly pursuits. However, when the exercise of speech and assembly becomes disruptive or non-peaceable, infringes on the rights of others, threatens property or public safety, or impedes the conduct of business of Occidental College, the College will act according to this policy. The College has instituted procedures for presenting and peaceably resolving disagreements about policies. Officials at Occidental College are willing to examine, discuss, and explain institutional policies to any member of the College community. Nevertheless, participation in a demonstration that is materially disruptive, non-peaceful, or involves the substantial disorder or invasion of the rights of others on the property of Occidental College is prohibited. In determining whether a demonstration or action meets any of these criteria, Occidental College follows the general guidelines listed below.

1. Non-peaceful actions or demonstrations are those that endanger or injure, or threaten to endanger or injure, any person, or that damage or threaten to damage property.
2. Disruptive actions or demonstrations are those that restrict free movement, or interfere with, or impede access to, regular activities or facilities of the College.
3. Actions or demonstrations that invade the rights of others include those that create a hostile environment for another College community member(s); involve violation of the College’s Discrimination, Harassment & Retaliation Policy, Sexual & Interpersonal Misconduct Policy, or similar policies, laws, or regulations; or involve intimidating, doxxing, or harassing conduct.