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IU’s controversial new free speech policy was tested on the first week of classes
Classes began at Indiana University in Bloomington this week, about a month after the board of trustees approved a new policy restricting speech on campus.
Already, multiple people were reported for breaking the policy, and the ACLU has filed a lawsuit against the university. Here’s a look at what happened this week.
What does IU’s expressive activities policy say?
The policy approved Aug. 1 tightens restrictions on the time, place and manner protests can take place on all IU campuses, including banning camping on campus grounds “unless approved in conjunction with an approved university event.” It also requires advance approval for erecting signs and structures, and restricts “expressive” activities to between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
▶ Read more about the policy from our partners at the Herald-Times
The policy came after an ongoing pro-Palestinian encampment was set up in Dunn Meadow on the campus in the spring.
Who was reported for violating IU’s policy?
IU’s police department reported associate professor Ben Robinson and informatics graduate student Bryce Green for violating the policy on Tuesday night. The two spoke at a candlelight vigil at Sample Gates to “(mourn) the loss of freedom of expression at Indiana University.” It took place at 11:30 p.m.
“We wanted to draw attention to the draconian threat of the policy,” Robinson said.
▶ Read more about what happened in The Herald-Times
Why is the ACLU challenging IU’s policy?
The ACLU of Indiana announced Thursday it filed a lawsuit, saying the policy is overly broad and violates the First Amendment.
“IU has approved a new policy that prohibits all expressive activity if it takes place between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., even if the activity is not at all disruptive, such as standing silently, holding a sign, wearing a t-shirt with a communicative message, or discussing current events with friends,” Ken Falk, ACLU’s legal director, said in a statement. “The protections of the First Amendment do not end at 11:00 p.m., only to begin again at 6:00 a.m.”
▶ Previously: IU looks to enforce new policy; protesters could be arrested Thursday
The complaint claims the plaintiffs the ACLU represents were caused “irreparable harm for which there is no adequate remedy at law.”
IU’s policy outlines sanctions for violations “including but not limited to citation, trespass, and/or interim suspension from campus.” Students who violate the policy can face suspension or expulsion. Faculty and staff can be suspended or terminated.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: IU’s free speech policy tested by students, faculty and ACLU lawsuit
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