Trustees approve updates to IU’s Expressive Activity Policy

The Indiana University Board of Trustees approved updates to IU’s Expressive Activity Policy, UA-10, that clarify overnight restrictions on certain activities. Trustees approved the changes Friday during their business meeting.

The policy changes go into effect immediately. Photo by James Brosher, Indiana University“Since the policy went into effect, we’ve received questions about how it applies to various events taking place on our campuses,” IU Vice President and General Counsel Anthony Prather said. “These changes are meant to address those questions and increase clarity so those who wish to exercise their rights know what’s permitted and what’s not.”

The revised policy includes time, place and manner regulations that protect freedom of speech while ensuring the university’s educational mission or operations are not disrupted. The policy changes align with Indiana Code and make clear that university-approved activities can take place during the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. The policy includes the following:

Permitted

• Spontaneously and contemporaneously assembling and distributing literature from the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• IU scheduled or authorized events that extend into the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Events during the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. that received prior written approval from the appropriate university office.

Not permitted

• Protesting, making speeches, circulating petitions and all other unapproved activities from the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Existing rules requiring prior approval for temporary structures and prohibiting unapproved camping remain in effect, along with other aspects of the policy trustees first approved in July.

The updated policy goes into effect immediately. More information can be found on IU’s free speech website.