Universities at their best are places of dialogue, where ideas and knowledge are tested through the process of reason and critical thinking. As a result, ideas may clash as they are passionately debated and the rights to speech, assembly and expression are put into practice on campuses. 

Wayne State University is proud to be a campus where the free and civil exchange of ideas flourishes, and where people can express their unique views, in spite of whether they align with our own. As we uphold the law and encourage rational discourse, we are guided by our values, among which is diversity and inclusion, which states that we “value all people and understand that their unique experiences, talents and perspectives make us a stronger organization and better people.” Central to this is free speech, which plays a key role in the university’s commitment to cultivating and fostering an atmosphere of tolerance and respect for diverse points of view. 

Also in accordance with our values, Wayne State University’s leadership team, and our entire university community, is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive learning, living and working environment for all our members that is free from violence or the threat of violence. Wayne State does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex (including gender identity), national origin, or religion, in our education programs, activities and employment practices, and furthermore, does not tolerate behavior that violates the law or university policy.    

What is free speech? 

Fundamental to democracy is the right to express opinions freely and openly, without government censorship. Freedom of speech is protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which states that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” 

What is hate speech? 

Hate speech is expression that targets an individual or group of people based on characteristics such as race, religion, gender or nationality. It is offensive and threatens social peace. Since it is not criminalized under U.S. or state laws, hate speech is also protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution; thus, attempting to censor what someone considers hate speech is not legally enforceable. 

Can Wayne State prevent groups from coming to campus? 

As a public institution, Wayne State welcomes people to express their ideas — however disagreeable they may be — as long they act lawfully, follow university policy, and refrain from interfering with university operations or our academic mission. We cannot prohibit people from coming to campus and expressing their views, though we can ensure they follow policy while holding an event. WSU is committed to protecting physical safety during all events and fulfilling our obligation to create a space for civil and safe disagreement among diverse community members — one of the hallmarks of higher education. 

How is Wayne State ensuring campus safety when individuals or groups express controversial ideas? 

The safety of our campus community and visitors to campus is paramount. To ensure we maintain a safe environment for free expression, we maintain an awareness of all events on campus, including those attended by campus visitors. If an event has the possibility of inciting conflict, we may lawfully impose time, place, and manner restrictions to avoid confrontations, maintain public safety and avoid disrupting campus operations. The Wayne State University Police Department will also maintain a peaceful presence and only intercede if necessary to protect the safety of people and property on campus. 

What are the consequences of expressing views that are perceived as hateful or hurtful to others? 

Expressing views or opinions, even those perceived as disagreeable or hurtful, is protected by the U.S. Constitution. Wayne State University and our U.S. justice system will protect the right to such expression. The law, however, does not protect speakers from the reactions of non-governmental actors offended by controversial speech. We encourage everyone to consider — before they express themselves — the consequences of speech that could be interpreted by other individuals, communities, groups and organizations as callous, ignorant or hateful. Even speech that is legally protected can be hurtful to others and inconsistent with our values of diversity, equity and inclusion. In an era where speech and expression can easily become part of one’s permanent record, the long-term consequences of engaging in hateful speech can include loss of employment or job opportunities, and the damage or severance of important personal and professional relationships. 

What resources can students, faculty and staff access if they feel they've experienced speech that is hurtful, or experienced an incident which left them scared, concerned or uncertain? 

The university has many resources in place to help in this regard, a list of which is provided below as well as on our safety website. These resources address different situations — overall, they are designed to provide the right support at the right time for any member of our campus in need of assistance. 

Student resources 

• If you witness a crime or feel unsafe on campus, contact the Wayne State University Police Department at 313-577-2222. You can also find active attacker training and preparedness tips on the WSUPD website.  
• Safewalk program: When studying or working late on campus, contact Wayne State Police to receive an officer escort to your vehicle or living quarters.  
• A process is in place to assist you with any problems, issues or concerns, or to help you in pursuit of your Wayne State degree. The student complaint procedures are established to address concerns that may arise. You may also contact the Dean of Students Office at 313-577-1010. 
• Counseling, psychological and substance abuse assistance are available to Wayne State students through Counseling and Psychological Services. Contact CAPS at 313-577-3398.   
• If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.   
• If you have concerns related to sexual harassment — including sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and stalking — or for consultation regarding resource referrals, supportive measures, and reporting and resolution options, contact the Title IX Office at 313-577-9999 or submit a Sexual Misconduct Incident Report.  
• If you have experienced or been impacted by sexual violence, the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (OSVPE) is a new on-campus resource that exists to meet your needs. The OSVPE is located in Suite 652 in the Student Center Building and can be reached at 313-577-9220.    
• Report a violation of the University Non-Discrimination policy — including discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, sex (including gender identity), national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status, height, weight, disability or veteran status — to the Office of Equal Opportunity by email at oeo@wayne.edu or call 313-577-2280.  
• Receive health care services, including wellness visits, immunizations and more, through the Campus Health Center. Make an appointment by calling 313-577-5041 or visiting the CHC website.   
• If you are in need of food, clothing and household items, the W Food Pantry & Thrift Shop provides them at no cost. Contact the W at 313-577-0154. 
• Report any phishing scams or suspicious emails online to Computing & Information Technology (C&IT) or call 313-577-4357.  

Faculty and staff resources 

• If you witness a crime or feel unsafe on campus, contact the Wayne State University Police Department at 313-577-2222. You can also find active attacker training and preparedness tips at the WSUPD website.  
• Safewalk program: When studying or working late on campus, contact Wayne State Police to receive an officer escort to your vehicle or living quarters.  
• If you have a concern regarding a student, contact the Dean of Students Office (DOSO) at 313-577-1010 or file a Student Care Report.  
• Report a violation of the University Non-Discrimination policy — including discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, sex (including gender identity), national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status, height, weight, disability or veteran status — to the Office of Equal Opportunity by email at oeo@wayne.edu or call 313-577-2280. 
• If you are unsure whether to report an incident, contact the Office of General Counsel at 313-577-2268.  
• If you suspect fraud, any suspicious activity, misuse or misappropriation, please contact the Office of Internal Audit's Fraud Hotline at 313-577-5138. For online reporting, submit an Anonymous Tips Form. 
• Report any phishing scams or suspicious emails online to Computing & Information Technology (C&IT) or call 313-577-4357.  
• For free, confidential services to achieve a healthier work-life balance, contact Wayne State’s Employee Assistance Program at 800-448-8326.