Using Your Voice | Division of Strategic Communications | The University of Vermont(title)

Freedom of expression–the ability to voice your ideas and viewpoints–is a cornerstone of the university experience. UVM is committed to maintaining an environment where free speech and free expression can thrive.

The freedom to use your voice does not mean that anything goes or that one’s free speech and viewpoints are always appropriate. You may be expressing or experiencing ideas and points of view that cause real distress. As members of a community of scholars committed to improving the human condition, we must practice the principles of civil discourse and take to heart the values in Our Common Ground.  

This summer, the university spent time exploring ways to provide resources to help educate our community around topics that are critical to how we engage with each other. We sought to define and refine policies and procedures to help guide our freedom to use our voices and pursue our goals and do so with civility and respect and without negatively impacting others or affecting one’s good standing with the university.   

Take the time to read the information here and explore the links provided. Engage in the many opportunities we will provide this semester to learn how to use your voice most effectively. 

What is Free Speech?

The First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees our rights to free speech. UVM Faculty, staff, students, and those invited to campus by recognized university organizations are free to use their voices and express their points of view in public forums. 

Speech and actions which DO NOT fall under the protection of the First Amendment and can lead to sanctions by the university include direct threats, harassment, obscenity, and incitement to lawless activity.

What is Hate Speech?

Speech which is hurtful and offensive and targeted toward a certain person or group is often considered “hate speech.” This type of speech is also protected under the First Amendment and the university cannot restrict it. At times, you will experience hurtful speech and viewpoints you find hateful on campus. While this is protected Free Speech, hate speech does not align with our UVM Common Ground values. If you do experience hate speech, or feel that you are being subjected to discrimination or harassment, you can report it here via UVM's Bias Response Program. Note that UVM will not stifle or discipline these expressions; they may be used as an opportunity for broader campus discussion and community growth.
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Demonstrating on Campus

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Demonstrating or protesting on campus is permitted within certain guidelines and polices. These have been long-standing policies that are reviewed regularly and established to help protect the rights of all members of our community to access university spaces and resources. You can organize, assemble, and use your voice to be heard and seek to affect change, but it is important to know how to do it effectively, and within university policies so you do not jeopardize your standing with the university. Before you organize a demonstration or protest, be sure to review the UVM Freedom of Expression Policies.

Getting your voice heard

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There are other ways beyond demonstrating to get your voice heard and bring about change. Sometimes, these can be more effective and sustainable. Some ideas include:

  • Organizing a vigil
  • Meeting with university administrators
  • Working with the Student Government Association (SGA) or Graduate Student Senate (GSS) to organize a panel or lecture
  • Participating as a member of a governance group
  • Engaging in university-wide committees
  • Working with your college or unit's advisory council 

Understanding Your Standing

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“Good standing” defines a student’s relationship with the university—what the student can expect for services and access to pursue learning objectives. There are several things that can have an impact on whether you are in “good standing” or not. It is critically important to know what those things are, and what implications they can have for you—which can include the inability to register for classes, access your UVM residence, or even attend class. Take the time to understand the definitions of good standing for undergraduates and good standing for graduate students. 

Medical students are subject to the Larner College of Medicine professionalism and conduct standards and the Medical Student Handbook.

Getting Your Student Club Officially Recognized

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Student clubs and organizations can and should go through the UVM process to become officially recognized, that is, officially become a Recognized Student Organization or “RSO.” The benefits of this include possible access to funding and promotional help from the Student Government Association (SGA) or the Graduate Student Senate (GSS), and the ability to schedule events and meetings using university spaces through the Event Management System (EMS). The SGA has instructions and resources to for undergraduate students on how to go through the process of becoming an RSO and the GSS has similar information on graduate club and organizations. 

Upcoming Events

Important Policies and Resources

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