Green Light School

James Madison University

Green light institutions are those colleges and universities whose policies nominally protect free speech. Read more here.

Public or Private: Public
Federal Circuit: Fourth Circuit
Head of Institution: President Jonathan R Alger
James Madison University
MSC 7608
Harrisonburg
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
540-568-6868
president@jmu.edu
Website: http://www.jmu.edu

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Do you have any information, updates, or changes regarding the policies at this institution? Let us know!

On this page, FIRE has excerpted policies that address speech and expression. You may download the full policy in .pdf form, below.

Restrictions on Expressive Rights

Harassment Policies (Learn More)

Green light: Student Handbook: Judicial Affairs Policies- Personal Abuse 12-13

No student shall direct a serious expression of the intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals.
No student shall direct expressions that can be reasonably anticipated to incite a violent reaction from an individual or group of individuals at anyone.
View full policy (PDF, 701 KB).

Free Speech Zones

Green light: Event Management: Policies- Free Speech and Peaceful Assemblies 12-13

Student organizations are strongly encouraged to register free speech and peaceful assemblies with Madison Union Scheduling at least 48 hours in advance.
View full policy (PDF, 755 KB).

Posting Policies

Green light: Use of Bulletin Boards & Posting Public Notices 12-13

It is not the intent of this policy to censor or otherwise control the content of notices or other materials to be posted. However, it is recommended that such materials be in good taste and comply with all standards of conduct set forth in the student handbook.
Advertising the sale of alcoholic beverages, or any phrase or symbol that would lead the reader to believe that alcohol will be served or consumed is prohibited.
View full policy (PDF, 188 KB).

Internet Usage Policies

Green light: Appropriate Use of Information Technology Resources 12-13

Individuals shall: Not use computing resources, including the university network and email system, with the intention to harass, intimidate, threaten, or otherwise harm another person, whether directly or indirectly.
View full policy (PDF, 223 KB).

Advertised Commitments to Free Expression

Green light policy: Student Handbook: University Policies and Judicial Procedures- Student Rights and Responsibilities 12-13

The student as a citizen has the rights of freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of peaceful assembly and association ....
View full policy (PDF, 225 KB).

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The speech codes and policies above were last fully checked via internet and other research means by FIRE in September 2012. According to FIRE’s research the substantive policies are current at least until this date. Directory information, including the name of the president of the college or university, may have been updated more recently. If any policy has been revised, or if you believe that we are in error, please contact us.