Time, Place and Manner (Interim): A. Freedom of Expression Procedures

Relevant Excerpt

Sonoma State University believes that the search for knowledge requires the freedom to speak openly about concerns and issues. All students and employees of Sonoma State University and members of the public are free to lawfully exercise their constitutional right to freedom of expression on university property. Freedom of expression activity includes, but is not limited to, pure or symbolic speech, assembly, meeting, demonstrations or rallies, picketing, petitioning, distributing flyers, mime and theater, music and singing, survey research, and religious or political activity.

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Time: Daily, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., except for current Sonoma State University registered students, student clubs/organizations, staff, and faculty, who may engage in freedom of expression activities at any time.

Place: Approved freedom of expression activities may take place on campus with the following exceptions: inside parking lots and university buildings and within 20 feet of any location in which instructional, educational and/or official business activities are being conducted. Popular locations include outside the Student Center and the Mario Savio Speakers’ Corner next to International Hall.

Manner: Freedom of expression must be conducted in a manner that (1) shall not interfere with or obstruct the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic, (2) shall not interfere with or disrupt the conduct of university business, (3) shall be carried out without creating excessive noise by use of a device, (4) shall not unreasonably interfere with classes in session or other scheduled academic, educational, cultural/arts programs, (5) shall not promote an unlawful end, such as promoting actual violence or bodily or property harms, terrorist threats, defamation, obscenity, and false advertising, and (6) shall not violate any federal, state or local safety code, such as regulations set by the State Fire Marshal. Persons using areas generally available to students and the community are allowed to distribute petitions, circulars, leaflets, newspapers, and other printed matter.