UCF is a public university that values inclusive exchanges of ideas and the civil exploration and expression of different viewpoints.
Free expression and open, inclusive dialogue are at the core of UCF’s academic mission. We are a community full of diverse backgrounds and opinions, and listening to and speaking with those with different ideas and perspectives are part of personal and scholarly growth.
Florida’s Campus Free Expression Act designates all outdoor areas of campus that are generally accessible to the UCF community as usable by any member of the public for any spontaneous or planned expressive activity.
We expect all Knights and campus visitors to exchange viewpoints in a civil manner. All members of the UCF community and campus visitors alike have the lawful right to express their beliefs without violence or disruption.
During this period of COVID-19, all members of the UCF community and campus visitors also are expected to comply with the university’s public health regulations and policies.
As part of those requirements and policies, UCF requires everyone on campus to wear face coverings at all times, whether indoors or outdoors. We also require physical distancing to be maintained as much as feasible, while recognizing that it may not always be possible during outdoor gatherings involving free expression. This is partly why the wearing of face coverings is our most important COVID-19 precaution.
When campus demonstrations occur, law enforcement may be on hand to protect individuals’ rights to lawful free expression, along with the safety of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. Officers do not take a stance on the issue or speaker but rather protect everyone’s right to express themselves in a safe manner. Read UCFPD’s policy on protests and demonstrations for more information.
To learn more, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the Campus Free Expression Act and how to Use Your Voice at UCF.
