Free Speech at OSU
Free Speech at Oklahoma State
Support Resources
Resources for Speakers
Things to Remember:
Find Common Ground
While sometimes people say things that are oppositional to our beliefs, it's important to remember that we can still have productive conversations and relationships with those whom we disagree with.
It's OK to Disagree
We can all be friends with people who don't share identical beliefs. It's important to acknowledge that we're all different, and that's okay!
- Controversial or Offending Speech
There's no constitutional right to not be offended. Controversial speech is expected and valued on college campuses and in our society, which means free speech protection still applies if a speaker is shouting derogatory comments or a social media post is offensive to a particular population.
- Aforementioned Types of Expression
The right to engage in aforementioned types of expression is a protected right under our laws, and court rulings exist that articulate offensive speech and unpopular viewpoints are what need legal protection most.
- Employee TrainingIn keeping with the university's commitment to foster an environment where free speech is protected and by state statute, all deans, heads of departments and individuals responsible for establishing free speech policies or handling free speech complaints must complete training every two years. Training courses are hosted by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and are available in the university's Learning Management System for on-demand learning.
- Oklahoma Senate Bill 361
On April 29, 2019, Governor Kevin Stitt signed Oklahoma Senate Bill 361 into law. This new law, as codified at 70 O.S. § 2120, states:
"The outdoor areas of campuses of public institutions of higher education in this state shall be deemed public forums for the campus community, and public institutions of higher education shall not create “free speech zones” or other designated areas of campus outside of which expressive activities are prohibited."
- Annual Report
Pursuant to 70 O.S. § 2120, the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical Colleges submits the following to demonstrate its course of action for compliance with the requirements of this statute.
- Free Speech Violation Complaint Form