The U.S. Constitution provides strong protections for free speech and expression, and the University of Michigan is committed to cultivating an environment where the free exchange of opinions can flourish. The Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) supports the university in this commitment by working together with our community to ensure the rights and safety of all students, faculty, staff and visitors are upheld.
Together, we are committed to protecting and promoting freedom of speech and expression; however, those protections do not extend to forms of expression that interfere with the rights of others. Any demonstration or protest on U-M property that interferes with the educational function of the institution or in which violence, property damage or other unlawful behavior occurs is unlawful.
U-M has a specific policy against violence in our community:
The University is committed to maintaining an environment that is safe and free from violence and will not tolerate violent and threatening behavior. All University community members share the responsibility and are expected to maintain a climate of behavior that does not foster acts of violence, threats, and aggression.
DPSS encourages organizers to communicate with us in advance so we may better provide for the safety of participants, share important information and help ensure the success of the event.
We can help organizers plan a safe event free of charge. Contact us here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The University’s policy on free speech in its entirety can be found in U-M’s Standard Practice Guide. In general, it is the right of members of the University community (including students, faculty, staff, and administrators), speakers, artists, and others invited by members of the University community to set forth their views and opinions at the University.
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Anytime you need help maintaining safety. Examples include if you suspect someone is committing a crime against someone or property, if someone is refusing or failing to comply with established University policies that protect the health and safety of people or property, or if someone is disrupting the lawful operations and functions of the building.
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- Dial 911.
- Follow all instructions from law enforcement officials.
- Avoid provoking or obstructing demonstrators.
- Avoid the area of disturbance if you are outside.
- Shelter in place if you are indoors and stay away from doors and windows.
- Secure your area (lock doors, safes, files, vital records and expensive equipment) in case demonstrators enter.
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DPSS may be present during protest activity for the safety of the attendees as well as the community. Law enforcement authorities are present to ensure that everyone can exercise their right to peaceful assembly. Police officers are there to facilitate peaceful public assemblies and protect participants, counter-protestors and observers. Our officers work to de-escalate tense or violent situations. For more information on law enforcement’s role in ensuring safety, please review this article from Amnesty International.
RELEVANT STATUTES AND UNIVERSITY POLICIES
- First Amendment, United States Constitution
- Hate Speech (Ethnic Intimidation), Michigan Penal Code
- Freedom of Speech and Artistic Expression, U-M Policy
- Violence in the University Community, U-M Policy
