ideas or claims that a particular assembly is promoting. To engage in obstruction is a form of
censorship, no matter who initiates it or for what reasons.
Actions such as the following are unacceptable: blocking, obstructing, or impeding passage of a
person or vehicle, committing bodily harm, and/or erecting or placing of obstructions that result in
depriving others of their rights. In all cases, students, faculty, and staff must be afforded an
opportunity to decline to participate in the assembly and to exit and enter freely.
Forms of Peaceful Assembly
Peaceful assembly includes meetings, speeches, debates, demonstrations, marches, vigils, sit-ins,
rallies, protests, picket lines, and similar meetings or gatherings. The following are examples of forms
of peaceful assembly. The information below is not intended to be an exhaustive list.
Demonstration
A large group of people, usually gathering for a political cause. It usually
includes a group march, ending with a rally or a speaker. A demonstration is
similar to a protest in that they both can use the same or similar methods to
achieve goals. However, demonstrations tend to be more abrasive and
spontaneous, whereas protests tend to be more organized.
March
A walk by a group of people to a place in order express an objection with any
event, situation, or policy
Picket Line
A line or group of people who are refusing to go to work until their employer
agrees to certain demands
Protest
A protest is a way to express an objections with any event, situation, or policy.
These objections can be manifested either by actions or by words.
Sit-In
Any organized protest in which a group of people peacefully occupy and refuse
to leave college premises
Vigil
An observance of commemorative activity or event meant to demonstrate
unity around a particular issue or concern, and/or to promote peace and
prevent violence.
Guidelines for Planning a Peaceful Assembly
Persons planning or initiating such assemblies to be conducted on the College campus are requested to
identify the group’s event to the Office of Student Affairs. The Office of Student Affairs will provide general
assistance with planning and support of peaceful assembly events and activities.
In some cases, areas may be reserved, if available, for the accommodation of such assemblies.
Arrangements must be made for any assembly which involves the use of College buildings, grounds,
and facilities not available for general use. The organization sponsoring a speaker or conducting an
assembly assumes the responsibility for maintaining the College’s policies and student freedom of
expression.
Public Safety may be required to ensure that the rights of all concerned are protected. The notification
is necessary so that College personnel are aware of this type of activity and are able to insure the
safety of all participants and members of our community. You may contact the Office of the Dean of
Students at (404) 270-5133 for further assistance.
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