Freedom of speech is a fundamental American freedom and human right, and no place should this right be more valued and protected than on America’s college and university campuses. Binghamton University’s mission is to educate students and advance knowledge, a mission best accomplished in an environment where an exchange of ideas, even competing ideas, is not only allowed but encouraged. From this intellectual complexity and vitality, our University thrives and delivers on the promise of education.
It is critical, therefore, that we preserve this freedom of speech, thought and inquiry.
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What is free speech?
Free speech, or Freedom of Speech, is the right to freely express opinions in words or actions. It is constitutionally protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Freedom of speech is also recognized as a human right under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
What is the First Amendment?
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is contained in the Bill of Rights. It expressly prohibits the United States Congress from making laws “respecting an
establishment of religion,” prohibiting the free exercise of religion, infringing
freedom of speech, infringing freedom of the press, limiting the right to assemble
peaceably, or limiting the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
The protections of the First Amendment are extended to state governments and public
university campuses by the Fourteenth Amendment.What about hate speech?
One of the University's central interests is to promote a diverse and tolerant society and create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all members of our community. As such, we cannot condone speech (or action) that is injurious, offensive or demeaning, especially when directed at a particular group or class of people.
While protected by the First Amendment, hate speech is antithetical to our mission, and any expression that constitutes a true threat, incitement to imminent lawless action, targeted discriminatory harassment, or defamation can be deemed unacceptable and subject to redress.
As a public institution, Binghamton University has adopted our Principles of Community statement in an effort to promote a civil environment where all members of the community are heard and differing perspectives are respected.
Read Binghamton University's Principles of Community Statement >
Learn about inclusive language
Inclusive language acknowledges diversity, conveys respect and promotes equity >Associated resources
§ Binghamton University Student Code of Conduct
§ Binghamton University Statement on Academic Freedom
§ Binghamton University Statement on Becoming a More Inclusive Community
§ Binghamton University Policy on Demonstrations
§ The State University of New York Rules for the Maintenance of Public Order