As South Dakota's premier land-grant public university, South Dakota State University has a long history of commitment to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics whereby the ethical and intellectual development of the student body and general welfare of the public may be promoted. This site outlines the university's steadfast commitment to freedom of expression and highlights relevant laws, policies and training.
"If history has taught us anything about higher education, it is that we will not always agree with each other. However, that does not mean that we can鈥檛 respect one another and address our differences through conversation and education."
-Barry H. Dunn, Ph.D., President
The First Amendment
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects the freedom of speech, religion and the press. It also protects the freedom to peacefully assemble or gather together or associate with a group of people for social, economic, political or religious purposes, as well as the right to protest the government. In addition to the First Amendment, the university is subject to state laws governing the commitment to free expression and discussion of intellectually diverse topics at institutions of higher education.
Freedom of Expression
Freedom of expression includes the right to discuss and present scholarly opinions and conclusions on all matters both in and outside the classroom without institutional discipline or restraint. This freedom includes the right to speak and write as a member of the university community or as a private citizen on matters of public concern, so long as the expression does not violate the law or SDBOR and university policies, including those highlighted below.
To foster an environment of robust discussion and open inquiry, university leadership will refrain from issuing position statements on contested issues that do not directly affect the academic, research, and outreach missions of the university and its environment of free inquiry. When a public issue arises that directly affects the university's mission, institutional leaders, after consultation with the South Dakota Board of Regents, may issue statements that articulate the significance of that issue to our campus community and higher education in our state.
Academic Freedom
Academic freedom includes the right to study, discuss, investigate, teach and publish. To secure student freedom in learning, university faculty members in the classroom and in seminar encourage free and orderly discussion, inquiry and expression of the course subject matter. Student performance may not be evaluated on opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards.
Laws, Policies and Training
South Dakota Law:
SDBOR Policies:
University Policies:
University Policy 3:1 - Student Conduct Code
University Policy 3:10 - Student Organizations
University Policy 6:7 - Facilities and Grounds Use and Scheduling
University Policy 6:8 - Use of University Facilities and Grounds for Expressive Activity by Student Organizations, Students, Employees and their Guests
University Policy 9:6 - Communications and Branding
Training:
Other Resources:
Residential Life and Student Handbooks
Report a Concern
Individuals who believe their freedom of expression may have been violated are encouraged to file a complaint.
Appeal of Facilities Use Denial
(You may choose to remain anonymous.)
Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against or harassed are encouraged to contact the Office of Title IX/Equal Opportunity.