Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom at Stanford
Stanford is committed to freedom of expression, free inquiry, and the open exchange of ideas as fundamental values for the university’s academic mission. This website furnishes interim guidance on the application of freedom of expression principles in different contexts around campus.
Highlighted Policies
Additional outdoor event spaces
In addition to White Plaza, Stanford has designated several locations as outdoor event spaces for members of the Stanford community — Meyer Green, the groves next to the Oval, Manzanita Field, and Panama Street Clearing. These can be used for events including demonstrations with more than 100 expected participants. However, advance registration of these spaces is required. The Main Quad is an academic area and is NOT an event space, other than for established university events. Demonstrations, rallies, and other events should occur in White Plaza or one of the other outdoor event spaces; smaller events can be held in a variety of locations.
No overnight camping
Overnight camping (staying outside between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. on university property or setting up structures that remain between those hours) is not permitted, with the exception of longstanding agreements with the university. Unauthorized tents and structures will be removed.
Anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies
Stanford abides by the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin, as well as the provisions of Title IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex.