Policy for Freedom of Expression
Mohave Community College’s Freedom of Expression Policy ensures the fullest degree of intellectual freedom and free expression and the right to assemble peaceably as guaranteed by the First Amendment. The community college is an institution dedicated to the discovery, improvement, transmission and dissemination of knowledge through research, teaching, discussion and debate. The role of the college is to provide an open environment for speech protected by the First Amendment, including ideas and opinions that may be unwelcome, disagreeable, or deeply offensive. MCC places a high value on freedom of thought, speech, expression and assembly, which are essential to any institution of higher learning. The College supports the rights of individuals, faculty, staff and student organizations to demonstrate provided such activities do not disrupt normal activities or infringe upon the rights of others.
The full administrative procedures for MCC’s Freedom of Expression policy can be found by opening the individual links below as well as in Section 3.050 of the MCC Policies and Procedures Manual
3.050-A: Committee on Free Expression
The College’s committee on free expression oversees the submission an annual report on or before December 1 to the governor, the speaker of the house of representatives and the president of the senate and submit a copy of the annual report to the secretary of state.
3.050-B: Free Expression-Student Orientation
The College will include in its orientation program information describing the policies and rules regarding free expression in a manner that is consistent with Title 15, Chapter 14, Article 6.
3.050-C: Distribution and/or Posting of Flyers and/or Signs
The College regulates the posting and distribution of flyers and signs on its campuses while allowing for spontaneous distribution of literature in a public forum if the activity is lawful and does not disrupt the functioning of the college.
Only the United States, State of Arizona, and College flag will be flown outside the Mohave County Community College District offices in Kingman, AZ. The College will observe federal and state flag laws and protocol at all times. Other flags may be flown on college-owned campus flag poles by recognized student organizations and college departments as a result of a celebration or commemoration of an event pertinent to the sponsoring organization or department.
3.050-E: Appearances by Religious Organizations on Campuses
The College strives to be a forum for debate on issues, and the appearance on campuses by religious organizations is allowed; however it can not allow individuals or organizations to proselytize or encourage membership. Religious organizations wishing to hold informational meetings on the campuses should follow the Facilities Request and Use process.
3.050-F: Appearances by Political Organizations on Campuses
The College strives be a forum for debate on issues, and the appearance on campus by political candidates or organizations is encouraged; however, it is not allowed to endorse, or appear to endorse, any candidate or political position on any issue. Political candidates or organizations wishing to hold informational meetings on the campuses should follow the Facilities Request and Use process.
3.050-G: Demonstrations on Campus
The College is obligated to ensure that demonstrations on the campuses do not threaten persons or property through proper planning and scheduling. Occasionally, events take place which demand immediate public outcry, and it is not the intent of the policy to limit individuals’ rights to demonstrate. Responsible dissent carries with it sensitivity for the civil rights of others. The College will not condone behavior that violates the freedom of speech, choice, assembly, or movement of other individuals or organizations.