On-Campus Demonstration Policy

Thomas Jefferson University values free inquiry and the search for knowledge and insight and supports the peaceable assembly of members of its community. The University recognizes the concurrent obligation on the part of all members of the community, guests, and visitors to maintain an atmosphere conducive to educational pursuits and to respect the rights of all individuals.

The University supports peaceful dissent, and orderly demonstrations are permitted on campus in accordance with this policy. The use of University property for these purposes does not imply acceptance or endorsement by Jefferson of the views expressed.

The following procedures govern on-campus demonstrations. 

Leadership & Prior Consultation

A member of the University’s student community must be designated the Organizer (“Organizer”) for each demonstration (the “Event”).

The Organizer must contact the Dean of Students Office (on the East Falls Campus) or the Office of Student Affairs (on the Center City Campus) to schedule a meeting to discuss the Event and coordinate planning efforts with the appropriate campus partners. If the Organizer is planning the Event on behalf of a university recognized club or organization, the advisor to the club or organization is strongly encouraged to attend the meeting.

The Dean of Students / Office of Student Affairs or designate will meet with the organizer within one (1) business day of the request. During the meeting the Dean of Students Office / Office of Student Affairs will review the details of the proposed Event, including proposed time, place, manner and anticipated size.  All speakers from outside of Jefferson must be pre-approved by the Dean of Students / Office of Student Affairs. Expectations, responsibilities, and logistical considerations will be discussed. If approved by the Dean of Students Office or Office of Student Affairs, the Event may move forward.

Reservation of campus space for any Event is contingent upon availability. Space cannot be reserved without approval by the Campus Reservationist and such approval is conditioned upon the prior approval of the Dean of Students of Office of Student Affairs. Locations generally approved for these activities include:

  • On the East Falls campus activity must be contained within the campus boundaries.
  • On the Center City campus activity must be contained to Lubert Plaza.

Measures to Ensure Safety & Security

All members of the University community may participate in peaceful demonstrations on campus. However, disruptive demonstrations, herein defined as any demonstration that unreasonably interferes with the rights or safety of others, are strictly prohibited. Hate speech and/or speech that promotes violence will not be tolerated. The University will immediately shut down any Event that it considers a threat to the community and may otherwise take steps to control an Event for safety purposes.

In order to use space on the campus for the purpose of peaceful demonstration, the Organizer must ensure the following:

  1. Maintain Peace and Order
    • The Organizer is responsible for maintaining peace and order during the Event. Student participants are required to adhere to the University’s Community Standards. Students and organizations are responsible for the actions of their external guests.
    • The Organizer should be aware that other demonstrations may be approved that include opposing views.
    • An Event may be canceled or required to conclude early at the discretion of the University.
  2. Responsibly Conclude the Demonstration
    • At the conclusion of the Event, the Organizer must make a reasonable effort to return the space to the condition it was in prior the Event. This includes properly disposing of all garbage. Any unanticipated and accidental property damage should be immediately reported to university administrators and may result in the assessment of fees for cleaning, repairs, and replacement of property.