There are a variety of ways you can exercise your first amendment rights on campus. No matter what activity you’re engaging in, you are required to comply with the University’s time, place, and manner restrictions, University policy, and the law.
Definition Breakdown: Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions
Government entities, including public universities, may manage their property and facilities by establishing content and viewpoint-neutral restrictions on the time, place, and manner of expressive activities on their property.
What this means: While you have a right to engage in protected speech activities on campus, the University may restrict how, when, and/or where you engage in the speech so long as the restrictions are not based on the content of your speech.
Participating in Activism
Illinois State values the unique views and expressions of our campus community. Many activities that are allowed have boundaries. Before planning and taking part in activism, make sure you understand your responsibilities.
Amplified Sound
Allowed
The amplification policy outlines requirements for a group or person using amplified sound on campus.
-
Get approval. Amplified sound must be approved if the sound can be heard greater than 100 feet from the device.
-
Don’t be disruptive. Amplified sound cannot disrupt University educational activities or business.
-
Follow time limits. Start time: 8 a.m.
End Time: 10 p.m. Sunday – Thursday | Midnight Friday and Saturday
Police Presence
Allowed
Illinois State University Police provide an important public safety function on campus and the University community and their presence at any event, including demonstrations or protests, is appropriate.
Flyers
Allowed
The University maintains locations and kiosk structures where flyers and other messages may be placed to be shared with the campus community. All placements in these areas must conform to University policies, including institutional identity, sponsorship, advertising, and alcohol, and will be removed in accordance with Facilities Management procedures. Learn about event posting
Chalking
Allowed
Washable chalk is only allowed on ground-level, horizontal concrete surfaces that are easily cleaned and not protected by building overhangs, porches, or canopies (i.e., uncovered walkways, not walls, buildings, sculpture, etc.). No chalking on vertical spaces.
Unauthorized Building Use
Not allowed
Occupying a University building without authorization when it is normally closed or when individuals are not otherwise authorized to be there is prohibited.
Defacing Materials
Not allowed
Ornament, paint, paint chalk, adhesives, tape, duct tape, and other defacing materials are prohibited.
Disruptive Behavior
Not allowed
Learn more about what disruptive behavior is and what to do if you encounter it. Get information
Plan and Schedule Your Activity
Scheduling a demonstration is not required but encouraged to help ensure the activity is safe and that organizers have information on the University’s time, place, and manner requirements. If you need assistance planning or have questions about expressive activities, there’s help.
-
Dean of Students Office
Helps students and registered student organizations plan events on and off campus.
Event Planning Webpage
DeanOfStudents@IllinoisState.edu
(309) 438-2008 -
Demonstration Safety Team
Ensures campus demonstrators can exercise their rights freely, safely, and productively within University policy. Contact at least 8 hours before your event (12-24 hours preferred).
DemonstrationSafetyTeam@IllinoisState.edu -
Multicultural Center
Creates a sense of belonging for students through intentional spaces designed with their specific needs in mind.
Multicultural Center Website
TheMulticulturalCenter@IllinoisState.edu
(309) 438-8968 -
Quad Use
University events and reservations take priority over unscheduled events on the quad. If your activity on the quad involves, sales, fundraising, or University services (chairs, equipment, etc.), a reservation is required.
conferences@IllinoisState.edu
(309) 438-2160
Most campus spaces are reserved for the official business operations of the University in furtherance of its teaching, research, and service mission. These are open to University community members for academic and business use and to campus visitors for authorized purposes (e.g., visits to Admissions by prospective students and their families, attending events open to the public) in a manner consistent with University policy and applicable law. When those engaging in an unscheduled activity are required to relocate, they may request the appropriate University official to assist in relocating to a space where the activity can continue or in scheduling it for a different time. The University will use reasonable efforts to relocate or reschedule unscheduled events to a different location or time where the activity may continue.
University Event Review Committee
The University Event Review Committee (UERC) helps keep people safe during activism activities. Their responsibilities include:
- Reviewing requests for events and activities on University property
- Make recommendations to the President’s Cabinet about large events
- Recommend mitigating measures regarding safety, security, insurance, etc.