Freedom of Expression Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some traditional forms of unprotected speech:  

• True threats (expression of an intent to harm)  

• Incitement to imminent violence 

• Fighting words (threats that provoke immediate violence) 

• Unlawful targeted harassment 

There is no legal definition or exception for hate speech under the law. The University must uphold freedom of expression on campus, allowing all viewpoints, even offensive speech. The University is prohibited from banning specific topics or speakers from campus. The University may impose content-neutral time, place, and manner restrictions.   

Student Conduct and Community Standards recognizes the power of words both to advocate for change and to spread hateful messages. We support anyone who encounters harmful speech and will work with students to report an incident to the appropriate office. We are committed to fostering difficult conversations, connecting students with resources, and providing space for students to reflect on how their own or others’ actions impact the University, themselves, and others.  

KU may impose time, place, and manner restrictions to ensure the continuation of educational and administrational business. The University retains the right to assure the safety of individuals, the protection of property, and the continuity of the educational process including the maintenance of entrance to and egress from all University buildings and offices, conduct of regular class meetings, and other University functions. 

If staff are aware of expressive activities or other urgent events on campus, they may be present  to help keep community members safe and communicate to administrative leadership and/or campus law enforcement when actions exhibited by individuals or groups of students become unsafe or disruptive. 

The University permits student use of KU email addresses for incidental personal use in most circumstances. KU email may not be used for commercial purposes, for personal financial gain, to distribute chain mail, or to support outside organizations not otherwise authorized to use University facilities. 

Furthermore, KU email may not be used for political purposes to support partisan political candidates, party fundraising, or causes. Registered student and campus organizations such as the College Republicans or the KU Young Democrats may communicate with their members to notify them about meetings, speeches, or rallies. Individuals may use email to exchange ideas and opinions, including those dealing with political issues. 

The University supports a climate of trust and respect and does not ordinarily read, monitor, or screen electronic mail. However, complete confidentiality or privacy of email cannot be guaranteed.  

Materials may be posted on designated general use bulletin boards. Posting fliers or materials on other areas such as doors, vehicle windshields, and bus stop signs is prohibited.  Bulletin boards inside classrooms and for Unit/Department purposes may not be used by non-designated individuals. Individuals or groups wishing to post on bulletin boards must practice some consideration such as respecting existing materials, and not posting duplicate materials on the same board. Unauthorized posting of materials is subject to immediate removal.  For more information, see the https://policy.ku.edu/provost/posting-of-materials-and-sidewalk-chalking 

In on-campus residential buildings, students are prohibited from posting or distributing materials without approval by the Complex Director or KU Student Housing and Residence Life. Only signage approved by KU Student Housing and Residence Life may be posted in or around KU Student Housing and Residence property. (See “Dissemination of Information” section of the Student Housing and Residence Life Handbook.) 

Sidewalk chalking is permitted for members of the University community on paved, uncovered campus sidewalks. The chalk must be water-soluble. Chalking must not be commercial in nature. All chalking is subject to routine removal by Operations staff. Written language must abide by the same limitations as other types of free expression, Postings and chalking may not violate applicable laws or policies regulating or related to unprotected speech, including but not limited to true threats, incitement to imminent violence, fighting words, and unlawful targeted harassment. Unauthorized posting of materials or prohibited chalking is subject to immediate removal. For more information, see https://policy.ku.edu/provost/posting-of-materials-and-sidewalk-chalking.