Odessa College supports the free exchange of ideas including the freedom of speech. The college upholds the First Amendment to the United States’ Constitution:
“Congress make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting its free exercise. It protectsfreedom of speech, the press, assembly, and the right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
Common outdoor areas of the college are considered public forums/free speech areas. The college will allow any person to engage in expressive activities in theses spaces without prior approval. The activity cannot be unlawful or unsafe and cannot disrupt college operations including preventing teaching from taking place inside a building. Public forums/free speech areas are limited to the outdoor areas of the campus.
The Executive Director of Student Life or designee will monitor free speech events or demonstrations that take place in common outdoor areas in coordination with the Odessa College Police Department (OCPD).
If you feel physically threatened by someone else’s expressive activity, call 911 or contact the OCPD officer on call via phone or text at 432-238-6334.
Odessa College Legal Policy: Community Expression and Use of College FacilitiesOdessa College Local Policy: Community Expression and Use of College Facilities
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