Statement on Free Speech and Expression

Freedom of speech and expression are central to the mission of Michigan State University’s College of Law. Free inquiry and free speech are the cornerstones of an academic institution committed to the creation and transfer of knowledge. Expression of differing points of view is crucial for learning and understanding, not solely for those who present and defend a view but for those who hear and disagree with those views. The commitment to free speech and freedom of inquiry extends to all members of the MSU Law community: faculty, staff, and students. MSU Law is committed to allowing a broad spectrum of opinions on its campus and to creating an environment where ideas can be freely expressed and challenged. MSU Law is committed to the academic freedom of its employees and students as articulated in the Faculty Handbook. https://hr.msu.edu/policies-procedures/faculty-academic-staff/faculty-handbook/faculty_rights.html

MSU Law is deeply committed to preparing students to engage thoughtfully, openly, and effectively in disagreement and debate in accordance with the standards of the legal profession, as articulated in the American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct and the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct.

MSU Law is committed to creating and maintaining a community that invites the full participation of all people and the expression of all viewpoints. MSU Law believes that freedom of speech and expression are essential to, and compatible with, the principles articulated in the MSU Statement on Free Speech. https://trustees.msu.edu/about/statement-free-speech.html

Freedom of speech and expression, however, are not without limits. MSU policies regarding the time, place, and manner of speech and expression ensure that MSU and MSU Law can carry on its normal operations. MSU may restrict speech or expression consistent with the First Amendment, including conduct that violates University policies or ordinances.

MSU Law adheres to all freedom of speech and expression policies adopted by MSU including, but not limited to, the aforementioned and:

https://trustees.msu.edu/bylaws-ordinances-policies/policies/02-06-04.html

https://trustees.msu.edu/bylaws-ordinances-policies/ordinances/ordinance-15.00.html

https://ossa.msu.edu/srr

https://spartanexperiences.msu.edu/_assets/pdfs/rso-pdf/student-organization-handbook/campaigning.canvassing.petition.rehs-spartanlife2020.pdf

https://hr.msu.edu/policies-procedures/faculty-academic-staff/faculty-handbook/faculty_rights.html

https://hr.msu.edu/policies-procedures/faculty-academic-staff/faculty-handbook/partisan_political_activities.html

https://civilrights.msu.edu/

https://inclusion.msu.edu/index.html