Ad Hoc Joint Committee on Protests, Public Spaces, Free Speech, and the Press

This Committee was created in January 2016 and dissolved in June 2017. This page describes the Committee’s work. For further information about free speech at Mizzou, see the University’s Free Expression website.

Charge

The Committee was charged to:

  1. recommend how public spaces can be regulated on campus while protecting safety, free inquiry, and free expression and
  2. suggest how the University might resolve future conflicts should they arise concerning the use of public spaces on campus.

The primary purpose of the Committee is to help everyone on campus understand their rights and responsibilities with respect to campus protests and the use of public space. In fulfilling its charge, the Committee is advised to examine the events of Fall 2015 in Carnahan Quadrangle to see what lessons can be learned and to consult where appropriate with faculty and staff who are experts in related fields, as well as with relevant campus committees.

Description and Origin

Recent activity on campus has left many students, faculty, and staff unsure of how the University regulates public spaces on campus, especially during protests. In addition, observers statewide and nationwide have questioned whether the University responded appropriately to events this past fall. It is important that the University be well prepared should similar events occur in the future, lest students, faculty, staff, and visitors be placed in harm’s way or subjected to violations of their rights.

Policies as Approved by the Chancellor

These policies have been approved by the Chancellor and are effective as of June 1, 2017

Committee’s Final Report

On October 28, 2016, the Committee submitted its Final Revised Report to the Chancellor and the Chair of Faculty Council.

Information

Committee members

Related links