Policy Library: Campus Expression and Space Utilization Policy Interim

Virginia Commonwealth University

  • Speech Code Rating
    Green
  • Speech Code Category
    Protest and Demonstration Policies
  • Last updated
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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) supports and advocates for free expression, understanding the pivotal role open dialogue and the exchange of ideas play in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation. Our commitment to fostering an environment conducive to civil discourse is rooted in the belief that academic excellence and societal progress are linked to the vibrant exercise of protected speech and other forms of expressive activities.

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Any university student, employee, registered student organization, or unit (each an affiliated person or organization) may generally use campus spaces in accordance with university policy.

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Advance notice and written authorization are required only for Major Events and Event Reservations, as described below.

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Major Event

An event requiring advance notice and permission from the university because its size, nature or complexity may disrupt other university functions or activities and increase logistical requirements without proactive management in coordination with university officials. A Major Event is an event, other than an academic course, program, or curriculum approved by the provost, which involves any one of the following factors:

  • Expected or actual attendance over 150 persons (but if the space has an approved seated occupancy load greater than 150 persons, such as the Commons Theater, which has a seated occupancy load of 250 persons, then the event is not a Major Event unless it involves at least one of the other factors below);
    • With reasonable notice to students and employees, VCU may reduce the Major Event attendance threshold during certain periods (such as the week before and during final exams)
  • Setting with safety concerns (including time and location) based on assessment from the VCU Police;
  • The event is a dance or concert, regardless of how many attendees;
  • Presence of any object or substance requiring review by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety, including but not limited to any animal, open flame, firework, pyrotechnic, or other flammable or hazardous item;
  • Installation of any structure, such as a tent, stage, scaffold, bleacher, bounce house, or carnival-style ride;
  • Alcohol served; or
  • Outdoor amplified sound, including but not limited to bullhorns, Bluetooth speakers, etc.

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The university will determine any fee for security based on viewpoint-neutral standards used to assess risk, such as the number of expected attendees as determined by the university, the location of the event, the time of day, and presence of alcohol or special equipment. Consistent with the lawful protection of expressive activity, VCU will not charge securityrelated fees based on the content of the expressive activity, the likelihood of disruption caused by others other than event attendees, or the actions of those who may protest the expressive activity.

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