Demonstrations Policy

Philosophy

Central to the functioning of an academic community is the free and full exchange of ideas. Although differing points of view are best reconciled by honest and open discussion, the College community recognizes that orderly demonstrations can communicate ideas and are a valid means of speech and assembly.

Definition

Disorderly demonstrations are those, in the judgment of the Dean of Students or their designee that would: Threaten to endanger the safety of any members of the College community, or pose a threat to the physical facilities, or significantly obstruct or disrupt the normal functions of the College, or attempt to deny others the ability to engage in free of speech or assembly.

Policy

For reasons of good order and safety, the Dean of Students must be notified at least 2 days prior to a planned demonstration. The Dean of Students or their designee may impose reasonable restrictions on the time, place, and manner of demonstrations with reasonable discretion.

Participants in a disorderly demonstration shall be accountable for their actions and may be subject to judicial action where injury or damage occurs, or the rights of others are violated. Negotiations will not take place while any member of the College community is under duress because of a demonstration.

Campus Facilities

Campus facilities and grounds are principally intended for use by approved College programs, activities, and operations. Requests for use by persons, groups, or organizations, internal or external to Saint Michael’s College, will be resolved in accordance with the time, place, and manner restrictions expressed in this policy, all of which will be administered in a manner reasonably designed to advance the mission of the institution, preserve the order necessary to conduct customary to SMC operations and activities, protect the safety of persons and security of property, and maintain the aesthetic appearance of the campus. Requests for facilities or grounds use for an event or activity by individuals or organizations must be submitted to the Dean of Students at least two days prior to a planned demonstration or event.

Unauthorized use of College grounds, facilities, and other resources may violate this policy, other applicable SMC policies, and/or civil and criminal laws. A demonstrated violation of policy or law may result in disciplinary or legal action against violators. In addition, SMC reserves the right to promptly discontinue unauthorized uses, without compensation to persons, groups, or organizations acting in violation of this policy. The College also reserves the right to charge for appropriate services, insurance and/or room rental fees.