Updated: April 18, 2024

As a university committed to free speech and diversity of perspective, the university welcomes dissent, advocacy, and the expression of the broadest array of ideas–even those that could be unpopular, upsetting, or critical of the university.

At the same time, no one is entitled to disrupt the lawful activities or speech of others. Because the university is a public institution, it is prohibited from interfering with lawful speech. It is also required to intervene when anyone attempts to substantially disrupt or interfere with the lawful speech of others.

The university’s long-standing policies, specifically Freedom of Speech and Artistic Expression – Standard Practice Guide 601.01 and the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities, make clear that unduly interfering with speakers and events is not protected speech under the law and violates university policy.

Following a disruption to the honors convocation ceremony on March 24, the University of Michigan proposed a new disruptive activity policy and asked for feedback from the university community. That draft policy is not in effect, as the university is in the process of reviewing input from the community. Any future changes will involve a collaborative process with students, faculty and staff.

We will share an update in the coming months and, in the meantime, our long-standing policies will continue to be enforced.

DRAFT Disruptive Activity Policy

News & Updates

4/2/2024 – President Ono’s message to campus community regarding listening to feedback

3/28/2024 – University Record: U-M requests feedback on proposed Disruptive Activity Policy