As the new year kicks off, it’s also the start of election season and new sessions for Congress and the Indiana General Assembly. The Office of the Vice President for University Relations at Indiana University wants to remind everyone about policy GR-01. This policy focuses on how we interact with state and federal officials and engage in political activities.
GR-01 was created to help everyone follow lobbying laws and state regulations. It also protects everyone’s right to express their views. This guidance is especially important for those who are part of the university community, as it outlines how to engage in political speech and activism without putting the university at risk of breaking any laws.
The policy doesn’t limit personal expression or academic freedom. Instead, it clarifies when individuals can represent the university and when they need to specify that their views are their own. This is essential because if a university unit or school makes political statements, it might unintentionally suppress those who hold different opinions.
Statistics show that around 70% of university students today believe that free speech is essential for a healthy campus environment, but many also feel their views are stifled. This highlights the need for clear policies like GR-01.
Additionally, according to a recent survey, 53% of students have reported experiencing some form of censorship on campus. This shows how vital it is for institutions to foster an atmosphere where all voices can be heard, while also respecting legal boundaries.
For more on Indiana University’s free speech policies, you can check out the IU Free Speech website. If you have questions about GR-01, Angela Smith Jones, the acting vice president for university relations, is available at asjones@iu.edu.
