POLICIES AFFECTING STUDENTS

On-Campus Demonstration, Picketing and Protest Guidelines

Student Rights and Responsibilities (See Appendix F in the 2004-2005 Undergraduate Catalog for the complete statement on student rights and responsibilities)

Purpose
Towson University's mission to the community at large is one of academic excellence and achievement. To that end, its campus community must be one wherein respect for the individual pursuit of academic excellence and achievement is given priority. In order to foster this environment, it is incumbent upon students to conduct themselves within the framework of the reasonable rules and regulations designed to enhance and protect the academic environment of the university. By specifying behavioral standards and by establishing fair and efficient processes for adjudicating conflict, the university seeks to protect the environment in which learning is nurtured and respect for that goal is continually afforded.

Individual Rights and Responsibilities
Personal Expression

1. Discussion and expression of all views is permitted within the institution subject only to requirements for the maintenance of order. Support for any cause, by orderly means, which does not disrupt the operation of the institution, is permitted.
2. Students, groups and campus organizations may invite to hear any persons of their own choosing, subject only to the requirements of the use of institutional facilities and regulations of the university and the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland.
3. Students’ dress and grooming, of any style, are permitted subject to legal prohibitions.
4. Students, groups or organizations may distribute written materials on campus, providing such distribution does not disrupt the operations of the institution or deface property and adheres to the Advertising Policy and/or the Distribution and Solicitation Policy, which is available at the University Union Information Desk.
5. The right of assembly is granted within the institutional community. The institution retains the right to assure the safety of individuals, the protection of property and the continuity of the educational process.
6. Orderly picketing and other forms of peaceful protest are permitted on institutional premises. Interference with entrances to institutional facilities, intentional interruption of classes, or damage to property exceeds permissible limits.
7. Orderly picketing and orderly demonstrations are permitted in public areas within institutional buildings subject to the requirements of non-interference.
8. Every student has the option to be interviewed on campus by an organization authorized to recruit at the institution.

On-Campus Demonstration, Picketing and Protest Specific Guidelines

• The university seeks to maintain a safe environment for the free expression of ideas and ideals. Students, groups or student organizations do not need to reserve space; a notification that a demonstration or protest is going to occur is required.
• Students, groups or student organizations planning a protest or demonstration on campus must contact Campus Life, 410-704-2332, in advance to discuss applicable university policies.
• Demonstrators are required to assist in cleaning up any litter that might result from the demonstration.
• Printed materials distributed must bear the name of the sponsoring organization or individuals.
• A demonstration with a noise level that disrupts other authorized activities occurring on the university campus violates the Code of Student Conduct and makes participants subject to disciplinary sanction.
• Those participating in counter-demonstrations are expected to respect the rights of other demonstrators and to observe all of the guidelines and policies noted above.
• Protests and demonstrations will be suspended upon threat of violation of university policies.
• Students, groups or organizations may distribute written material on campus providing that it conforms to university policies.
• Failure to notify Campus Life may result in suspension of the protest or demonstration and/or judicial action taken against the sponsoring student or student groups.
• Individuals or groups not affiliated with the university must adhere to the Distribution and Solicitation Policy, which is available at the University Union Information Desk, 410-704-4636.