Frequently Asked Questions The following frequently asked questions with answers are provided so that everyone has a better understanding of the elements of the First Amendment and free speech at UNI. Free Speech ☰ Menu UNI's Freedom of Expression Policy Frequently Asked Questions BOR Freedom of Expression Policy Support and Assistance expand or collapse menu Dean of Students Office of Compliance and Equity Management Human Resource Services Report a Free Speech Concern What is protected speech? The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides for freedom of speech. This can mean spoken or written words as well as actions or non-actions. There are, however, some limitations. Is there speech that is not protected? Obscenity, acts of violence or incitement of violence or to break the law, specific threats of violence or intimidation, or harassment as it is defined by law are not protected by the First Amendment. Certain types of speech may violate state or federal laws. Is “hate speech” protected? The First Amendment does protect speech that may be considered hateful or offensive as long as it does not violate other laws or exceptions. This includes speech that may go against the values of the University of Northern Iowa. Can UNI limit free speech activity? Limitations can be placed on free speech but must be reasonable and not based on the viewpoint or content of the speech. Time, place and manner of speech can be regulated to ensure the health, safety and welfare of everyone and to prevent disruption of university functions. Do students, faculty, staff and visitors have freedom of speech? As a university of the state of Iowa, UNI bears a collective responsibility to ensure that freedom of expression is protected. While content-neutral limitations may be placed on time, location and manner of expression, it is the responsibility of every university employee and student to abide by the legal requirements ensuring freedom of expression. Is the university able to restrict employee’s freedom of expression? University faculty and staff are entitled to the full protection of the First Amendment when speaking as private citizens so long as they do not state or imply they are speaking for the university. Academic freedom allows for freedom in the classroom in discussing the subject, though faculty should be careful not to introduce controversial matter into the teaching that has no relation to the subject. Does the university regulate displays within campus spaces? UNI does have policies relating to the posting of non-commercial signs and displays in university buildings and in external spaces, including the use of chalking. Information on postings within UNI buildings can be found in Chapter 8 of the university’s Policies and Procedures. Can UNI deny recognition of student groups or limit their activities? The university cannot deny recognition of a student group or limit their activities based on the views or ideas expressed by the organization or its members. The university can enact content-neutral guidelines for all student organizations to ensure they are open to all students.
