Student advocacy and activism have a storied, impactful history at MSU and universities across the nation. We are proud of this history and understand that what helps to spark student advocacy and activism are strong beliefs and emotions — actions taken in response to issues that are at times systemic, impacting entire communities on various levels and in various ways.

As a whole, people can be affected by events and policies locally as part of the MSU community as well as part of the global community. It is imperative that members from across the MSU community have the opportunity to participate in advocacy and activism when they feel it is necessary. The following is a guide for student activism on campus with some helpful resources.

“Education must enable one to sift and weigh evidence, to discern the true from the false, the real from the unreal, and the facts from the fiction.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Guidelines

MSU believes everyone should be able to speak freely and peacefully. To help keep everyone safe and respected, please follow these guidelines:

Conduct

• Keep noise levels down near campus buildings.
• Make sure walkways are clear so people can move around easily.
• Keep doors to buildings open and accessible.
• Don’t interrupt classes or other school activities.
• Respect others’ personal space and work areas.
• Do not go into campus buildings when they are closed.

Dialogues

• Listen to different ideas and beliefs with an open mind.
• Be responsible in what you say and do.
• Share your thoughts in a positive way and never use physical force.

Reminders

• Breaking the law while protesting can lead to legal trouble.
• MSU welcomes counter protests, but you must respect everyone’s right to express themselves.
• If you have safety concerns on campus, visit liveon.msu.edu/campus-safety.

Action Steps

The right to speak on campus is not a right to speak at any time, at any place and in any manner a person wishes.

• Completing an event planning form at involve.msu.edu three business days in advance is necessary to help ensure protests can occur safely.
• Valuable resources:
  • The Registered Student Organization Handbook
  • Your student organization adviser
  • Office of Spartan Experiences
• Be aware of relevant institutional policies: 
  • Student Disorderly Conduct Policy
  • General Student Regulations
  • Ordinance 15.00: Disorderly Assemblages or Conduct
• Consider how to become knowledgeable about the issue(s) for which you are advocating.
• Seek and be open to different perspectives. All good teachers must also be learners.
• Consider the impact your actions will have on yourself and others.

Relevant Policies and Ordinances

University regulations and policies that may apply to advocacy and activism activities include:

• General Student Regulations
• Disorderly Assemblages or Conduct
• Signs and Structures
• Student Disorderly Conduct Policy
• Free Speech and Individual Responsibility

Important Contact Information

Department of Student Development and Leadership
517-355-8286
Student Services Building
556 E. Circle Drive, Room 101
spartanexperiences.msu.edu

MSU Department of Police and Public Safety
517-355-2221
1120 Red Cedar Road
dpps.msu.edu

Residence Education and Housing Services
517-884-5483
1855 Place
550. S. Harrison Road
liveon.msu.edu