Campus Demonstration Guidelines
Philosophy
Bethel University recognizes the importance of freedom of expression and the value of allowing members of the University community to express diverse perspectives, ideas, concerns, and convictions.
As a Christian university, Bethel seeks to foster a community in which students can engage thoughtfully and respectfully with ideas and perspectives that may differ from their own. Public expression can contribute meaningfully to the educational mission of the University when it is conducted in ways that respect the dignity of others, preserve the orderly operation of the University, and are consistent with Bethel's mission and community standards.
The University's approval of a location, event, assembly, or demonstration does not constitute University endorsement or approval of the views, ideas, messages, or positions expressed.
The Office of Student Life has the right to discontinue any protests or demonstrations not in compliance with these guidelines.
Policy
Bethel students and recognized student organizations may engage in public expression, including rallies, demonstrations, marches, vigils, protests, assemblies, forums, and similar activities, subject to reasonable time, place, and manner requirements.
All public expression activities must:
Be conducted peacefully and respectfully.
Comply with applicable University policies and community standards.
Respect the rights, safety, and dignity of other members of the University community.
Not substantially interfere with classes, University operations, events, or other authorized activities.
Not obstruct entrances, exits, sidewalks, roadways, or other areas necessary for safe access and movement.
Not damage, deface, or otherwise misuse University property.
Comply with reasonable requirements regarding sound amplification, signage, structures, equipment, and other event-related materials.
Leave the area in its original condition following the activity.
Registration and Approval
Bethel student organizations or groups wishing to hold a public assembly, demonstration, rally, protest, march, vigil, or similar event on University property must submit a request to the Office of Student Life at least 24 hours in advance.
The request should include:
The name of the sponsoring student organization or group;
The person responsible for the activity;
The anticipated number of participants;
The proposed date and time;
The proposed location;
The purpose and general nature of the activity;
Any anticipated need for sound amplification, structures, equipment, or other resources; and
Whether individuals or organizations not affiliated with Bethel are expected to participate.
The Office of Student Life may establish reasonable time, place, and manner requirements for the activity. Any additional requirements will be communicated to the organizers in advance when reasonably possible.
Time, Place, and Manner
Bethel may establish reasonable limitations on the time, location, and manner of public expression in order to:
Protect the safety of participants and others;
Prevent substantial disruption of University activities;
Maintain access to University facilities and services;
Protect University property;
Accommodate previously scheduled University activities; and
Ensure that public expression activities can occur in an orderly manner.
The University may designate specific locations for assemblies, demonstrations, and other forms of public expression.
Amplification, Signs, and Structures
Sound amplification may be used only with prior approval from the Office of Student Life and must comply with any established limitations regarding volume, timing, and location.
Signs, banners, tables, temporary structures, equipment, or other materials may be subject to reasonable restrictions based on safety, property protection, accessibility, and the orderly operation of the University.
No activity may permanently alter, damage, or deface University property.
Participation by Individuals Not Affiliated with Bethel
Public expression activities are intended primarily for members of the Bethel community.
Individuals or groups who are not affiliated with Bethel University may not participate in or organize public assemblies or demonstrations on University property without advance permission from the University.
The University may ask individuals who are not authorized to be present or participate in an activity to leave University property. Security and Safety personnel and authorized University staff may take appropriate action when necessary to protect safety, maintain order, or enforce University policies.
Disruption and Safety
Public expression activities may not substantially disrupt the orderly conduct of University business, classes, events, or other authorized activities or infringe upon the rights of others.
If an activity becomes substantially disruptive, unsafe, or otherwise violates University policy, the University may take appropriate action, including directing organizers or participants to modify, relocate, pause, or discontinue the activity.
Nothing in this policy prevents the University from taking immediate action when necessary to address an imminent threat to health or safety.
Media
The University recognizes that public assemblies and demonstrations may attract media attention. Groups anticipating media presence are encouraged to notify the Office of Marketing and Communications and the Office of Student Life in advance so that the University can appropriately coordinate media access and ensure that the rights and privacy of students and other community members are respected.
Policy Contact:
Office of Student Life
651-638-6300