Policies

Campus Use of Space Policy

Brandeis is home to a community of scholars, students, teachers, thinkers, and colleagues with diverse and exciting ideas. The University community has always valued free expression and inquiry and continues to do so. The University also exists against a backdrop of uncertainty and concern about events both global and local, and such events are rapidly changing. In complex times such as these, the community benefits from additional clarity and the expansion of some existing policies, protocols, and practices pertaining to how space is used on campus as we maintain the safety and security of our community. The goal of this policy is to promote a common understanding of the rules given the many and varied events and activities that take place across campus. Most of the provisions in this policy reflect currently existing rules, policies, and practices dispersed throughout the university but not previously collected in a centralized manner.

This policy may be revised based on recommendations of the University’s Presidential Task Force on Free Expression, which is separately reviewing the University’s Principles of Free Speech and Free Expression and the processes and protocols in place to apply those principles. The Task Force is scheduled to submit their recommendations to the President by the end of 2024.

Purpose

This policy sets out the rules and requirements for use of Brandeis University campus space, including campus protests.

Applicability

This policy applies to all Brandeis faculty, staff, students, and other members of the Brandeis University community (collectively sometimes referred to herein as “Community Members”). (1)

  1. In the event that any provisions of this policy conflict with terms of any current or future employee collective bargaining agreement, the terms of that agreement shall apply.
  2. For purposes of this policy, events and activities include forums, lectures, athletic matches, debates, performances, conferences, rallies, protests, and demonstrations.

This policy is for general guidance only. It does not create an employment contract or any right to continued employment at Brandeis University. Brandeis University reserves the right to modify, revoke, suspend, terminate, and/or change any and all policies and procedures at any time, with or without notice.

April 2025