Freedom of Speech | Office of the President
Source: https://www.sjsu.edu/president/priorities-and-initiatives/free-speech/index.php
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:20
Freedom of Speech | Office of the President
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Free Speech at SJSU
San José State University believes that freedom of expression is a cornerstone of
a democratic society and essential to the educational process. Universities like SJSU
have a special obligation to encourage and support the free expression of ideas, values,
and opinions, even when they may be unpopular or controversial. The university shall
ensure that individuals and groups are afforded wide latitude in exercising the right
of free expression and that their constitutionally protected right to free expression
is protected while on campus. Freedom of expression, however, is not an absolute right
and it coexists with other rights and the need for public safety.
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CSU Interim Free Expression and Time, Place, and Manner Policy
The California State University systemwide Interim Free Expression and Time, Place
and Manner policy provides regulations to ensure that those who participate in lawful
expressive activities are protected and do not disrupt university operations or infringe
on the rights of others. SJSU has produced an additional addendum specific to the
main campus and affiliated locations.
What is Freedom of Speech?
Learn how the First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech and how this right is protected
here at SJSU.
Is There Any Speech Prohibited by the First Amendment?
The First Amendment does not prohibit any speech, but there are some types of speech
for which there is no, or very limited, First Amendment protection.
Recognized Student Organizations
SJSU has more than 350 Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) spanning a wide array
of topics, interests and viewpoints. RSOs are free to invite speakers to campus and
provide access to campus venues.
Election Activities and Other Advocacy
SJSU encourages our Spartan community to be civically engaged and make their voices
heard on the issues they care about. Learn more about the university’s status as a
public institution informs what organized activities and use of public resources are
allowed within the public university context.
Additional Resources
Learn about on- and off-campus resources.
Office of the President
Office of the President on Facebook
Office of the President on X
Office of the President on LinkedIn
Office of the President on Instagram
Contact Us
Phone:
408-924-1177
Email:
sjsupres@sjsu.edu
Visit Office
Clark Hall 555
One Washington Square
San Jose, CA 95192-0002
Subscribe
President Teniente-Matson’s messages
Skip to main content
Free Speech at SJSU
San José State University believes that freedom of expression is a cornerstone of
a democratic society and essential to the educational process. Universities like SJSU
have a special obligation to encourage and support the free expression of ideas, values,
and opinions, even when they may be unpopular or controversial. The university shall
ensure that individuals and groups are afforded wide latitude in exercising the right
of free expression and that their constitutionally protected right to free expression
is protected while on campus. Freedom of expression, however, is not an absolute right
and it coexists with other rights and the need for public safety.
Loading video content...
CSU Interim Free Expression and Time, Place, and Manner Policy
The California State University systemwide Interim Free Expression and Time, Place
and Manner policy provides regulations to ensure that those who participate in lawful
expressive activities are protected and do not disrupt university operations or infringe
on the rights of others. SJSU has produced an additional addendum specific to the
main campus and affiliated locations.
What is Freedom of Speech?
Learn how the First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech and how this right is protected
here at SJSU.
Is There Any Speech Prohibited by the First Amendment?
The First Amendment does not prohibit any speech, but there are some types of speech
for which there is no, or very limited, First Amendment protection.
Recognized Student Organizations
SJSU has more than 350 Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) spanning a wide array
of topics, interests and viewpoints. RSOs are free to invite speakers to campus and
provide access to campus venues.
Election Activities and Other Advocacy
SJSU encourages our Spartan community to be civically engaged and make their voices
heard on the issues they care about. Learn more about the university’s status as a
public institution informs what organized activities and use of public resources are
allowed within the public university context.
Additional Resources
Learn about on- and off-campus resources.
Office of the President
Office of the President on Facebook
Office of the President on X
Office of the President on LinkedIn
Office of the President on Instagram
Contact Us
Phone:
408-924-1177
Email:
sjsupres@sjsu.edu
Visit Office
Clark Hall 555
One Washington Square
San Jose, CA 95192-0002
Subscribe
President Teniente-Matson’s messages