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Free Speech at Cal Poly
It’s Your Right, Voice It
As a university committed to intellectual exploration and civic engagement, Cal Poly has long celebrated the diverse voices of our community and continues to embrace the right to free speech and free expression.
We recognize that peaceful protest has played a vital role in shaping dialogue and the progress of our campus and our nation, and as a public university, Cal Poly is committed to continuing our evolution by supporting and encouraging the free expression of ideas, values and opinions, even if they are different than our own.
This website is a resource to all students, faculty and staff who are looking to share their voice and engage in meaningful dialogue. Here you can find guidance and information on your rights as well as Cal Poly’s expectations and CSU policies.
Time, Place and Manner
Though committed to upholding free speech rights, Cal Poly must also maintain a learning and working environment where all members of our community—students, faculty and staff—can thrive. To that end, it’s important that demonstrations are conducted in a way that honor both the right to speak out and the university’s need to provide a safe, inclusive and uninterrupted educational, residential and workplace experience. The CSU’s interim Time, Place and Manner policy is in place for that very reason.
Resources:
CSU Time Place and Manner Policy
Cal Poly Addendum to CSU Policy
Cal Poly Policy 140 Use of University Property and Time, Place and Manner
Plan Accordingly and Know Your Rights
Cal Poly and the CSU support your freedom of expression and encourage you to use your voice to advocate, organize and create change. To do this right, it’s best to plan ahead and know your rights. Knowledge is power and this is where you get yours.
Free Speech Activity Guidelines
While free speech activities do not require a reservation, Cal Poly strongly encourages individuals to notify campus of your presence. This ensures your group is aware of other activities formally scheduled in surrounding locations. Prior to your arrival, email events@calpoly.edu with the name of your organization, contact information, dates on campus, and campus location. If you are not familiar with campus, the University Scheduling team will provide recommended locations.
Tabling or Booth
If your group is requesting space for tabling or a booth (10 x 10), once your email is received and processed, the University Scheduling team will provide acknowledgment and answer any questions you may have.
Installation of Structure or Use of Equipment
If your group is requesting space for the installation of a structure or is bringing equipment on campus that is not directly on your person, additional approval from campus support areas is required. The university requests a 2 week lead time for these types of activities. If a tent or installation requires fire marshal approval, longer lead times may be required.
Recommended Locations
Cal Poly is a very active community. In order to provide each group with the best campus experience, certain campus locations are recommended for free speech activities. These are high-traffic areas of campus that are ADA accessible.
- Dexter Lawn
- Mustang Way
- The University Union
Locations near housing or dining facilities may impact the daily operations of the university.
Helpful Resourses
CAP 140: Use of University Property and Time, Place and Manner
- CAP 145.5: Assemblies, Marches and Demonstrations
- CAP 145.6: Display or Distribution of Published Materials
- CAP 145.7: Chalking, Posting and Signage
- CAP 145.8: Distribution of Printed Materials
Report a Concern
If you believe your rights have been violated, you may report the incident to the Cal Poly Police Department to pursue criminal charges or to the Office of the Dean of Students or the Civil Rights and Compliance Office to file a formal complaint.
For more information on how to file a report, please visit our How to Report page.
