Rutgers Policy on Disruptions: Administrative Policy and Response
Policy Information
The right of freedom of expression at Rutgers is protected. However, the university has long recognized that the right of free expression does not include the right to engage in conduct that disrupts the University’s operations or endangers the safety of others.
The policy outlines the difference between expression and disruption and the potential ramifications.
What Does the Policy Do?
- States that the right of freedom of expression is protected at Rutgers University
- States that the right to freedom of expression does not include the right to engage in conduct that disrupts the university’s operations or endangers the safety of others
- Outlines the difference between expression and disruption and the potential ramifications
- Identifies activities that would qualify as interfering with the operations of the university or the rights of others
- Defines the university administrators with the authority to declare a particular activity to be disruptive
Policy Excerpt on Interference with University Operations
Excerpt from Section 6A of the policy
In order to ensure that individuals or groups not intentionally or recklessly interfere with the operation of the University or the rights of others, they shall not:
- obstruct vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, or other traffic;
- obstruct entrances or exits to buildings or driveways;
- interfere with educational activities inside or outside any building;
- harass passersby;
- interfere with or preclude a scheduled speaker from being heard;
- interfere with scheduled university ceremonies or events;
- damage property, including lawns, shrubs, or trees; or
- engage in any other activities that disrupt university business or infringe upon the rights of others.