Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
The guide provides information on engaging in expressive activities at WWU, including applicable laws, university policies, and practical information on reserving spaces and using media equipment. For detailed information, please download the full guide here.
Yes, with some caveats. All at WWU are protected by the rights to academic freedom and freedom of expression as defined by the First Amendment and the Washington State Constitution. This includes the right to engage in expressive activities, even if some may find them objectionable. However, the right to free expression on campus is not absolute. It does not extend to activities that interfere with WWU’s operations or violate others' legal rights, such as threats of violence or illegal harassment.
These are reasonable limits set by WWU to ensure expressive activities do not interfere with university operations or other people’s rights. These regulations are consistently applied regardless of content or viewpoint. Download the full Guide to Expressive Activities at WWU for more information.
Rules about expressive activity on campus
Expressive activities are generally allowed in designated “limited public forum areas” including Red Square, Communications Lawn, PAC Plaza, and Flag Plaza. However, specific aspects of activities or their locations may be adjusted based on health, safety, or operational concerns.
Expressive activities are not allowed in areas such as classrooms, administrative offices, lavatories, and roadways. Additionally, activities must not obstruct traffic, interfere with university operation, or create safety hazards.
Activities must not last longer than five days, must occur between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and cannot obstruct or interfere with university operations or others' rights. Amplified sound is restricted during university business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and activities must not threaten others' health or safety.
Amplified sound is prohibited from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. due to the residential nature of campus. Advance permission is required for its use.
Yes, activities may not involve the use of property for commercial purposes, setting up tents or shelters overnight, or using tactical face coverings to conceal identity.
Yes. Refer to university policy POL-U8650.01 Posting on Main Campus.
Chalking is permitted on the bricked grounds of Red Square and other designated areas on the ground. It must be done with non-toxic, water-soluble chalk and cannot be applied to walls, benches, or other structures.
Space reservations and notifications
- Non-university individuals or groups must provide notice to the Western Police Department at least five business days in advance.
- For reserving space, WWU individuals or groups should contact Event Services or administrative leadership.
WWU individuals and groups are not required to provide notice for spontaneous activities but are encouraged to inform the Department of Public Safety or relevant advisors.
Details required include the planned use, specific location, and any setup requirements such as sound amplification or visual equipment.
Addressing disruptions or concerns
Contact the individual(s) engaged in the behavior and request that they stop or leave. Be specific about what behavior is disrupting your class or other work. Identify yourself, share the reason for your concern, and request a specific action or behavioral change. Contact the event organizer to report the behavior. If the disruption continues, contact the event organizer or any identifiable university official in the area.
If the disruption may be criminal, contact University Police at (360) 650-3555 or dial 911 if it’s an emergency.
Report imminent threats to 911. For non-emergency criminal behavior, contact University Police at (360) 650-3555. Discriminatory or harassing behavior can be reported to the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX Compliance.
Disruptive behavior by a student club or organization should be reported to the Club Activities Office.
Behavior that discriminates or harasses people based on a protected aspect of identity can be reported to the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX Compliance: crtc@wwu.edu or 360-650-3307
Where to learn more
Who should students contact for more information about expressive activities?
Students should contact the Office of Student Life for guidance: Student.Life@wwu.edu
Who should faculty and staff contact regarding expressive activities?
Faculty and staff should contact Internal Audit by reaching out through this website: https://audit.wwu.edu/reporting
Where can I read more?
For further details, please refer to the full WWU Guide to Expressive Activities for more detailed information.