Emporia State University: Student Handbook Prohibits Free Expression in University Buildings

In September 2024, FIRE learned that Emporia State University’s Student Handbook states: “No free expression activities may occur inside any University building, arena, or stadium.” As FIRE wrote ESU on October 15, the policy does not define “free expression activities,”  chilling student speech and leading to potential subjective punishment by administrators. This vague and overbroad policy unduly burdens student speech in contravention of ESU’s obligation as a public university to abide by the First Amendment. We urged ESU to revise the policy by clarifying that only substantially disruptive expression in university buildings, arenas, and stadiums is prohibited. After ESU confirmed receipt of our letter on November 19 but failed to address our concerns, FIRE wrote ESU again on November 20, asking for a substantive response.