Programs & Services

Freedom of Expression

Georgia State holds the First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and the right to assemble peaceably as essential rights of a free people and the cornerstone of scholarly inquiry. The University is firmly committed to affording the University community with the opportunity to engage in the peaceful and orderly exercise of these rights. To achieve this objective, while at the same time fulfilling its educational mission and maintaining a safe campus environment, the University has certain time, place and manner restrictions that apply to speech activities, without regard to content.

The Office of the Dean of Students distributes handbills that provide useful information and support resources. An electronic version is available here.

University Community Members
Georgia State students, staff, faculty and their guests are supported in their right to engage in speech activities and may do so on campus in any place where, at the time of the speech, expression, or assembly the persons are permitted to be (including, but not limited to, designated public forums | speech areas) with the exception that distribution of printed materials is not permitted in classrooms and laboratories, dining areas, elevators, escalators, libraries, or entrances and exits to buildings. University community members may also engage in speech activities in, but not limited to, designated public forums listed in Section 4 of the Freedom of Expression Policy. These rights are subject to the time, place and manner restrictions set out below. Members of the University community are responsible for their invited guests at all times while visiting the university or engaging in university related activities whether on or off campus. It is the responsibility of the University community member host to accompany their invited guests at all times, and ensure those invited guests are aware of and comply with all university policies and procedures.

Non-University Community Members
Persons who are not members of the University community may engage in speech activities in designated public forums available at the locations listed in Section 4 of the Freedom of Expression Policy. Each speech area is identified with University signage. These designated public forums are to be used for all speech activities by non-university community members. These rights are subject to the time, place and manner restrictions set forth below.

More information about the Freedom of Expression Policy can be found here.

Civil Discourse

In a world buzzing with diverse perspectives and opinions, the ability to navigate differences and engage in constructive conversations is essential for success. This 6 minute course will empower students with the skills to embrace diverse perspectives, practice active listening and engage in respectful dialogue.