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Chapter 13. Speech, Expression, and Assembly

General Information

http://catalog.utexas.edu/general-information/appendices/appendix-c/speech-expression-and-assembly/

The freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly are fundamental rights of all persons and are central to the mission of the University. In accordance with this Chapter, students, faculty members, staff members, and members of the public have the right to assemble, to speak, and to attempt to attract the attention of others, and corresponding rights to hear the speech of others when they choose to listen, and to ignore the speech of others when they choose not to listen. Generally, University events and programming, and events at University spaces leased or managed by other parties, are outside the scope of this Chapter and are not considered expressive activity. These events and activities may be implemented as approved by the appropriate vice president or under the applicable contractual terms. In furtherance of the University’s educational mission, the University buildings including their outside surfaces, surfaces associated with or connected to a University building, and a University structures are limited public forums open only to the expressive activities of faculty, staff, and students as set forth in this Chapter. Members of the public may engage in expressive activities at the University in accordance with the rules contained in this Chapter, including generally applicable or localized “time, place, and manner” rules as described in Subsection 13-304. Student, faculty, and staff organizations may not invite the public at large to events in University buildings, or facilities, or locations that are not a Common Outdoor Area. Students, faculty and staff members are free to express their views, individually or in organized groups, orally or in writing or by other symbols, on any topic, in all parts of the campus as permitted by law, and subject to the applicable University rules and policies. Teaching, research, and other official functions of the University will have priority in allocating the use of space on campus. Members of the public may engage in expressive activities only in Common Outdoor Areas. The University's the time, place, and manner rules in this Chapter apply to individuals and groups engaging in expressive activity and are necessary to preserve the University's efficient and effective operations and functions. The University will not discriminate on the basis of the political, religious, philosophical, ideological, or academic viewpoint expressed by any person, either in the enforcement and administration of these rules or otherwise. This subsection does not limit the University’s ability to enforce provisions involving prohibited categories of expression described in Subchapter 13–200. The University of Texas at Austin Police Department (UTPD) and any other peace officer with lawful jurisdiction may immediately enforce these rules if a violation of these rules constitutes a breach of the peace, compromises public safety, or violates the law. They may also assist dean of students staff or other University officials, as appropriate, when individuals refuse to follow University rules.