Saint Xavier University values and promotes academic freedom and the inquiry into and debate over ideas. In so doing, the University respects the freedom of expression of its members in their speech, visual display, demonstration, and other forms of expressive activity in accordance with the policies and procedures of the University that promote access to and safety within the University and its activities.

The University "continues to build upon the ideals of its founders and sponsors, the Sisters of Mercy, who ... established an academy defined by intellectual rigor in the tradition of the liberal arts, the encouragement of religious faith, and action in solidarity with the economically poor of the world, especially women and children." Further, "in all programs of study, the University encourages the examination of fundamental questions of human concern, respectful dialogue in the context of diverse points of view and experience, and the search for truth and justice."

The University community also recognizes that the search for truth (veritas in Latin), the debate of ideas, and the process of thinking critically might, at times, lead individuals or groups to wish to express their views and to do so sometimes through forms of dialogue, display, dissent, or public demonstration. As an academic institution committed to the free expression of ideas, Saint Xavier University supports the freedom of individuals and groups to engage in expressive discourse in many possible forms. At the same time, the University must balance this freedom of expression with its mission and the rights of its members to pursue their academic and vocational objectives without unreasonable obstruction or hindrance.

The University expects that those who enjoy freedom of expression also must accept responsibility for order and discipline by engaging in dialogue, display, dissent, or demonstration in a peaceful and non-disruptive manner. Rooted in the University's core value of respect, permissible expressive activities do not include unlawful activity, activity that threatens or endangers the safety of any person or persons, the destruction of property, or obstruction of the normal operations of the University. In addition, any expression that is indecent, obscene, graphically violent, or grossly offensive on matters such as race, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law is inconsistent with the accepted norms of conduct at the University and will not be tolerated.

While the use of the University forum does not imply acceptance or endorsement by the University of the views expressed, the University has the authority and responsibility to regulate the time, place, and manner of expressive activity, especially per the following published policies:

• Demonstration Policy
• Statement on Political Activity
• Policy on Guest Speakers

Special statement on social media: The University will not tolerate any activity or posting on an official University social media site that exceeds the protection guaranteed by this interim statement on expressive activity. The University reserves the right to remove any such posting without notice and to refer social media activity to appropriate authorities for disciplinary action.

The University reserves the right to amend this interim statement as needed.

*Revised August 2024